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Structure and function of DNA as it relates to meiosis

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Describe the structure and function of DNA as the molecule of inheritance. DESCRIBE the structure of DNA. DISCUSS how the structure of DNA allows it to serve as the basis for inheritance. EXAMINE how meiosis allows DNA to be divided into gametes. DESCRIBE how this relates to Gregor Mendel's inheritance patterns.

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Solution Summary

In this solution I describe the molecular structure of DNA and then go on to describe how this structure relates to the storage and inheritance functions of DNA. I discuss how DNA, chromosomes, genes, and alleles play a role in meiosis. I further describe how meiosis and sexual reproduction result in the inheritance pattern's first described by Gregor Mendel.

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Hi there,

To respond to these questions you need to investigate four interrelated points: 1) DNA structure, 2) DNA function, 3) Meiosis and 4) Mendelian genetics.

Starting with DNA Structure and Function;

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is composed of three main elements - sugar (called deoxyribose) phosphate, and nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, thymine, and cytosine). A single DNA unit (one sugar, one phosphate and one base) is called a nucleotide. Groups of neighboring nucleotides are called genes. Chemically, DNA forms two long strands, which are connected in the middle by bonds between corresponding bases. This structure looks like a ladder, with bases as rungs, which twists to form a double helix. This shape is both stable and compact, but can untwist and break apart (and reform) easily when required for mitosis and meiosis and transcription . DNA functions as a the blueprint of our cells, ...

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