DNA and Genetics Primer - What Do We Know About DNA & the Genetic Saga?

Our bodies are made up of many different organspersons is 99.1% identical; however, that 0.9%
and at the foundation of all this are the millions ofdifference in our DNA makeup is very important as it
cells that contribute to this. Within every human cellaccounts for all of our varied genetic differences.
there is a specific blueprint for that individual's life.Well, what can I say?
This is known as your DNA.Understanding the basic components of our bodies,
It it said that if you were to take a strand of DNAtheir make up and functions, not only equip us with
and measure it from one end to the next it wouldgood information for our social gatherings, but it also
measure about 6 feet. This DNA is broken down intoassist us in understanding the importance of getting
different parts namely, chromosomes, genes andthe right diet and nutrition at the cellular level.
nucleotides.The DNA and Genetics era is here and while there is
There are 23 pairs of chromosomes in each cells.a lot of information out there, it's obvious that not
These chromosomes contain all of our geneticmany people know about what's going on. A simple
information. Inside these chromosomes are genes.genetics test can provide vital information that can
These are simply a sequence of DNA thatprobably save your life and should be considered.
corresponds to a particular inheritable trait, thatScientists now have the ability to identify small
contribute to our individuality.variations in our genetic code that can lead to
We inherit one gene from each parent for eachdiminished health and well-being. By identifying which
individual trait. Genes are responsible for differentof these variations you have, it is now possible to
physical features like hair color, height etc. The maindesign a targeted nutritional supplement program
job of these genes is to tell our bodies how to buildspecifically for your genotype.
proteins. Proteins play a critical role in our bodilyThis is just a brief primer that goes to show a small
functions and just goes to show the important rolepart of the enormous complexities that goes into
that genes play in our overall makeup.making up our bodies. It also reflects the
The building block of our DNA starts with nucleotidescommonalities that exist between individuals and the
which is the smallest unit in this whole DNA blueprint.variations in our genes which can lead to health
Now research has shown that based strictly on DNAchallenges later on. This is why it is so important to
humans are very much alike. Although we have manyhave a DNA assessment done sooner than later.
apparent differences, the DNA between any twoThanks for reading.