Everything You Need To Know About Genes

Our genes are responsible for the way we look and even for some congenital disorders. Modern science and research into genetics have given us several insights into genes, DNA and their role in our bodies. Healthcare India gives you an exhaustive insight on this

- Sukriti Malhotra

Genes & DNA

What are genes exactly, you may ask. Genes, basically, are the building blocks of life. They are made of DNA: Deoxyribonucleic Acid. Some genes act as instruction manuals to make protein molecules, whereas others don’t code for making proteins. In human beings, genes vary in size - from a few hundred DNA bases to more than two million bases. The Human Genome Project has estimated that we have between 20000-25000 genes.

Everyone inherits two sets of genes from each of our biological parents. Most genes are the same in all people; however, less than 1% of our total genes are slightly different in each individual person. These differences determine our unique physical features. Alleles are forms of the same gene, with small differences in their sequence of DNA bases, which causes us all to have unique physical features.

Chromosomes are thread-like structures located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells. Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of DNA, tightly coiled many times around proteins called histones that support its structure. Each chromosome has a constriction point called the centromere, which divides the chromosome into two sections - “arms and the p & q arms.” The location of the centromere on each chromosome determines its characteristic shape and can be used to help describe the location of specific genes.