DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for all known living organisms, carrying the information necessary for growth, development, functioning, and reproduction. It consists of a long chain of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of the DNA molecule. Native DNA has a double-helix structure, consisting of two long strands forming a spiral structure. Each strand is composed of nucleotide bases held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs. The basic components of DNA are: 1) Deoxyribose Sugar. Deoxyribose is a five-carbon sugar molecule that forms the backbone of the DNA strand. The deoxyribose sugars in each strand are connected by phosphate groups; 2) Phosphate Group. A phosphate group is attached to the deoxyribose sugar, creating a sugar-phosphate backbone that runs along the outside of the DNA helix. These phosphate groups provide an external negative charge to the DNA molecule; 3) Nitrogenous Base. There are four nitrogenous bases in DNA, divided into purines (Adenine (A) and Guanine (G)), which have a double-ring structure, and pyrimidines (Thymine (T) and Cytosine (C)), which have a single-ring structure. Complementary base pairing occurs between purines and pyrimidines: Adenine pairs with thymine (A-T), and guanine pairs with cytosine (G-C). DNA serves several critical functions. Firstly, DNA encodes the genetic instructions required for the development, functioning, and reproduction of an organism. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA carries the information about an organism's traits and characteristics. Secondly, DNA can make identical copies of itself through DNA replication. This ensures that genetic information is passed from one generation of cells to the next during cell division. DNA contains genes, which are the segments of the DNA molecule that code for specific proteins or functional RNA molecules. The process of gene expression involves transcribing the DNA code into RNA, which for genes is then translated into proteins, ultimately determining an organism's traits. DNA can undergo changes (mutations) in its sequence, which may either have no consequence, result in genetic diversity within a population, or lead to disease. Mutations can be caused by exposure to radiation, chemicals, or replication errors. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and other genetic mutations can lead to genetic diversity amongst individuals within a species, essential for adaptation and evolution. DNA replication is a process that ensures accurate transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next during cell division. The process involves several steps. The DNA double helix first unwinds, separating the two strands. DNA polymerase enzymes then add complementary nucleotides to each separated strand, following the base pairing rules. DNA polymerases have additional proofreading functions that check for errors in the newly synthesized strand and correct them. The newly synthesized DNA strands are then ligated together, forming two identical DNA molecules. DNA replication is a highly accurate process, but occasional errors can occur, leading to mutations. We provide a comprehensive product range of research tools for investigating DNA and nucleotides, including BrdU antibodies, ENPP3 antibodies, G3BP antibodies, RRM1 antibodies, and TRIM29 antibodies. Explore our full DNA and nucleotides product range below and discover more, for less.