DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) is a molecule composed of the four building blocks (bases) adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G) and thymine (T) structured into two chains that coil around each other to form a double helix carrying genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses. This genetic code is the blueprint for the production of proteins and other functional molecules that are essential for the life and health of the organism. DNA is found in the nucleus of cells, is organized into chromosomes, and is responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information from one generation to the next.
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