Overview of Nucleic Acid Function

DNA comprises the genetic material by which the information to make proteins and RNA is stored and transmitted to offspring. 

DNA is a linear polymer of deoxyribonucleotides in which the sequence of purine and pyrimidine bases encodes cellular RNA and protein molecules. 

DNA is highly organized into chromosomes, structures that allow the DNA to be packaged tightly for storage in the nucleus of the cell. 

The individual genes of defined sequence in the DNA specify or encode proteins and RNAs needed for all cellular functions. 

Replication, the process by which copies of the DNA are made, must have very high fidelity or accuracy to ensure proper function of gene products and healthy offspring. 

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