Glossary – Genetic material

  • Composed of DNA and RNA molecules.
  • DNA and RNA molecules are found inside the cells of living things.
  • DNA and RNA molecules are most commonly used to tell cells what proteins to make.
  • DNA and RNA molecules are very long and complex.
  • Parts of these molecules are unique from one living thing to another, even within the same species. Hence, you might have heard that everyone has unique DNA.
  • While DNA and RNA are created by the cells of living things, humans have learned how to create synthetic DNA and RNA molecules in the lab.