what are genes?
Genes are segments of DNA, which is short for deoxyribonucleic acid, and are found on chromosomes. Genes come in pairs and are able to exist in an alternative form, alleles. Alleles determine distinct traits that can be passed down from parents to their offspring. One gene contains a particular set of instructions, usually a coding for a particular protein or for a particular function. Those proteins help our bodies grow, work properly, and stay healthy. It is estimated that each gene in the body can make as many as 10 different proteins.
Genes, or genetic materials, are organized into structures called chromosomes, which are found in the nucleus of a cell. Each cell in the human body can contain about 25,000 to 35,000 genes. One chromosome can contain hundreds, sometimes thousands of genetic materials. These chromosomes and genes are made of DNA.
Genes, or genetic materials, are organized into structures called chromosomes, which are found in the nucleus of a cell. Each cell in the human body can contain about 25,000 to 35,000 genes. One chromosome can contain hundreds, sometimes thousands of genetic materials. These chromosomes and genes are made of DNA.
how do genes work?
Cells use genes very selectively. Some genes are used to make proteins needed for basic functions. An example is the dubbed housekeeping genes, they are active in many types of cells. Other genes, however, are inactive most of the time. Some other genes play a role in early development of the embryo and are then shut down forever. Many genes encode proteins that are unique to a particular kind of cell and that give the cell its character. For instance, making a brain cell differs from making a bone cell. Lastly, a normal cell activates just the genes it needs at the moment and actively suppresses the rest.
why are genes important?
Genes are important as they determine the body’s chemistry, physical appearance and behavior. They carry information that helps make who we are. For example, whether a person has curly or straight hair, double or single eyelids or even how one would smile or laugh. They are all passed through generations of one’s family in genes, as well as one’s behavior.
Genes are also vital to the body as it helps our bodies to develop and function smoothly, if a gene is functioning properly. However, if a single gene - even a tiny segment of a single gene – goes askew, the consequences can be dramatic. Some may result in deformities and disease, and even death.
Genes are also vital to the body as it helps our bodies to develop and function smoothly, if a gene is functioning properly. However, if a single gene - even a tiny segment of a single gene – goes askew, the consequences can be dramatic. Some may result in deformities and disease, and even death.
what is gene therapy?
Gene therapy uses the technology of genetic engineering to cure or treat a disease which is caused by a gene that has changed in some way. Gene therapy is a new kind of medicine, and scientists are still experimenting to see if it works. One of the methods they are trying is to replace sick genes with healthy ones. Gene therapy trials, where the research is tested on people and other research may lead to new ways to treat or even prevent many diseases.