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DNA Full Form- Deoxyribonucleic Acid

Updated on 06 February, 2024

Akansha Semwal

Akansha Semwal

Study Abroad Expert

DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, which mainly transmits hereditary code or genes from parents to their progeny. It possesses a distinct molecular structure. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain it. Swiss researcher Johannes Friedrich Miescher discovered the DNA.

More About DNA

  • DNA houses and preserves the genetic material within living creatures. 
  • DNA has a double helix structure.
  • It gives the appearance of a twisted ladder or spiral staircase.
  • The double helix structure contributes to its stability and productivity. 
  • Building blocks in DNA are called nucleotides. 
  • Each nucleotide is made up of three parts.
  • They are- a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and one of four bases – adenine, thymine, cytosine, or guanine.
  • DNA is a storehouse for genetic data.
  • It includes protein production instructions and cellular activity regulation.
  • There are three distinct kinds of DNA. A - DNA is right-handed, and as it gets dry, it assumes the shape of an A, which shields DNA when it's active.
  • The most prevalent type of DNA is B, which is a right-handed helix. In healthy physiological settings, the bulk of DNA has a type B shape.
  • Left-handed DNA is also known as Z-DNA.
  • It has a double helix that coils in a zigzag manner to the left. Z-DNA is thought to be involved in gene regulation.
  • DNA replication involves semi-conservative phenomena.
  • Each new DNA molecule retains one strand of the previous DNA in this phenomenon.
  • DNA analysis is critical in forensic investigations.
  • It plays a crucial role in getting reliable identification of persons. It also plays a crucial role in genetic engineering, enabling researchers to transfer and modify genes for various uses.

Akansha Semwal

Study Abroad Expert

Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.

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