By far, one of the least understood parts of the human body is DNA. This is the reason that so much misinformation is spread around the internet.
DNA is a module inside cells that contains all the cells genetic information DNA is made up of a double-stranded helix held together by weak hydrogen bonds between purine-pyrimidine nucleotide base pairs: adenine (A) paired with thymine (T) and guanine (G) paired with cytosine (C). It also allows for genetic information to be passed from generation to generation.
Many people confuse DNA and RNA due to their similar names and uses. DNA is a more fragile and more complicated structure when compared to RNA. It has a double helix while RNA has only one. In addition, DNA contains information on how to make different proteins that your cells need. This means that your cells can't risk damaging it, so it doesn't allow anything to directly use/read it. This is where RNA finds its use, as it can act as a copy of the information stored in the DNA that cells can use/read.
Despite the significant progress made in our understanding of DNA over the years, several misconceptions still exist about this essential molecule. Here are some of the most common:
While genes play a significant role in determining traits, environmental factors, such as diet and lifestyle, can also influence traits. For instance, someone with the genetic predisposition for obesity may not become obese if they lead a healthy lifestyle
Most traits are the result of the interactions between multiple genes, and in some cases, the environment. For instance, height is influenced by several genes
In genetics, the term "dominant" refers to a gene that is expressed over another gene. It does not mean that the trait is popular or more desirable
While some mutations can be harmful, others can be neutral or even beneficial. For instance, mutations can give rise to genetic diversity, which is essential for the survival and adaptation of species
While some mutations can be corrected by the body's repair mechanisms, others may be irreversible. For instance, mutations that occur in the germline cells (i.e., sperm and egg cells) can be passed down to the next generation
Genes are found in every cell of the body, not just in the organs or tissues that they code for. Therefore, genes that code for the eye can be found in other parts of the body as well
Most mutations do not cause noticeable effects and may only be detected through genetic testing
While saliva and blood samples are commonly used for DNA testing, other sample types, such as hair, skin cells, and semen, can also be used
Ethnicity estimates are based on genetic similarities between different populations, and therefore, may not reflect your entire ancestry. Additionally, ethnicity estimates can vary between different testing companies
The time it takes to receive your DNA test results can vary between different testing companies and can range from a few days to several weeks
By debunking these common misconceptions about DNA, we can gain a better understanding of this crucial molecule and its role in shaping who we are
We conducted a questioner to find out peoples perspective on DNA and how much they know. If you want to complete the questioner click here before continuing.
In the questioner we ask about common misconception to understand how many people believe they are true. Most of it though is to understand how well people know DNA. It contains simple questions like "Is DNA Alive?" and complicated questions like "What is the limiting factor to getting information, from DNA?". All this test the responders knowledge on DNA.