DNA Structure & Function Guided Notes
Name: __________________________
DNA Function
•
DNA encodes instructions for making all the ______________________of the body
•
These proteins determine our ___________________________
•
Differences in DNA
 ______________________________________________
 __________________________________________________
Why is DNA so useful?
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___________________________________ (only identical twins have identical DNA)
•
____________________________________________________________________
Is any other type of evidence as unique as DNA?
What is the benefit of DNA compared to fingerprints?
Types of DNA evidence
What kinds of evidence contain DNA that is suitable for forensic analysis?
Most commonly used: _____________________ and _________________________
Also useful: __________________ and _____________________
What components of blood contain DNA?
Why does saliva have DNA?
What typically isn’t useful?
DNA Structure
DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid.
DNA is composed of two chains of
nucleotides that are twisted around
each other to form a double helix.
Chromosomes, Genes, and DNA – What’s the difference?
Genes are ______________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
Chromosomes are _______________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
During most of the cell’s life, the DNA is only
loosely folded so it can be used to make
proteins.
But, before cell division, the DNA is tightly
folded into the characteristic “X” shape of
chromosomes.