4.2.3

Genome

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The Genome

The genome is all the genetic material of an organism, inherited (passed down) from parents to offspring. Within a genome, there are lots of levels of organisation:

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DNA

  • DNA is double helix polymer, which means it is a polymer (a large molecule made up of many subunits called nucleotides) made up of two strands forming a twisted, ladder shape.
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Genes

  • A gene is a small section of DNA. Genes code for a sequence of amino acids, which combine to give a specific protein.
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Chromosomes

  • Long strands of DNA are coiled up to form chromosomes.
  • Chromosomes contain many genes.
  • Human body cells contain 23 pairs of chromosomes, one of each pair coming from each parent.

Jump to other topics

1The Nature & Variety of Living Organisms

2Structure & Functions in Living Organisms

3Organism Functions

3.1Respiration

3.2Gas Exchange

3.3Transport

3.4Excretion

3.5Coordination & Response

4Reproduction & Inheritance

5Ecology

6Biological Resources

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