So far, we’ve learned that DNA contains a code that gives the cell information on how to make proteins. But what happens in between? Simply put, this occurs via a two-step process:
First, the two DNA strands split apart. Then, special proteins within the nucleus read the base pairs on a DNA strand to create an intermediate messenger molecule.
This process is called transcription and the molecule created is called messenger RNA (mRNA). mRNA is another type of nucleic acid and it does exactly what its name implies. It travels outside of the nucleus, serving as a message to the cellular machinery that builds proteins.
In the second step, specialized components of the cell read the mRNA’s message three base pairs at a time and work to assemble a protein, amino acid by amino acid. This process is called translation.Humans and many other organisms have eukaryotic cells. This means that their cells have a membrane-bound nucleus and several other membrane-bound structures called organelles.
In a eukaryotic cell, DNA is within the nucleus. A small amount of DNA is also found in organelles called mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cell.
Because there’s a limited amount of space within the nucleus, the DNA must be tightly packaged. There are several different stages of packaging, however the final products are the structures that we call chromosomes.Organisms like bacteria are prokaryotic cells. These cells don’t have a nucleus or organelles. In prokaryotic cells, DNA is found tightly coiled in the middle of the cell.The cells of your body divide as a normal part of growth and development. When this happens, each new cell must have a complete copy of DNA.
In order to achieve this, your DNA must undergo a process called replication. When this occurs, the two DNA strands split apart. Then, specialized cellular proteins use each strand as a template to make a new DNA strand.
When replication is completed, there are two double-stranded DNA molecules. One set will go into each new cell when division is complete.DNA is pivotal to our growth, reproduction, and health. It contains the instructions necessary for your cells to produce proteins that affect many different processes and functions in your body.
Because DNA is so important, damage or mutations can sometimes contribute to the development of disease. However, it’s also important to remember that mutations can be beneficial and contribute to our diversity as well.The ancestry kit gives you a breakdown of your global heritage across 150+ regions by percentages (for example, you may be 28.2 percent Eastern European). It also shows your maternal and paternal lineage. You then have the option to connect with others who have your DNA, in order to share and compare genetic similarities and differences.Meanwhile, the health + ancestry kit includes the aforementioned features, plus information on what your DNA says about your health, traits, and physical features. For example, you can find out how your genetics influence your:
- risk for certain diseases
- sleep
- muscle type
- eye color 23andMe analyzes DNA in the saliva sample using a process called “genotyping.” The lab processes the DNA on a chip that reads hundreds of thousands of variants in your genome. Your personalized report is based on these variants.
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