Basics of Nucleic Acids and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Nucleic acids are essential for all forms of life. Although the structure of the human genome is relatively simple, its function is incredibly complex. The human genome codes for the entire blueprint for an individual. Using the instructions coded by DNA, RNA mediates the processes of transcription and translation to produce protein molecules that carry out cellular functions. These processes are highly regulated in order to produce the right proteins at the right time in the right cells to carry out all of the functions necessary to maintain life.