Gene

Gene, smallest particle of hereditary information that is passed from parent to offspring. Genes consist of chainlike molecules of nucleic acids: DNA in most organisms and RNA in some viruses. The genes are normally located on the chromosomes found in the nucleus of each cell. The genetic information is coded by the sequences of the 4 bases present in nucleic acids, with a differing 3-base code for each amino acid, such that each gene contains the information for the synthesis of 1 protein chain.

See also: Heredity; Genetic engineering; Deoxyribonucleic Acid.