DNA

How it is used

The most basic word in the field, used in every lab, paper and lecture. You extract, purify, amplify, sequence and quantify DNA. It is usually uncountable: say 'DNA was extracted', not 'a DNA'. Common types are genomic DNA (gDNA), complementary DNA (cDNA) and plasmid DNA.

Example sentences

1. We extracted DNA from 48 blood samples this morning.

2. Check the DNA concentration and purity before you set up the PCR.

Common collocations

• extract DNA
• genomic DNA
• DNA sample
• DNA concentration
• DNA damage

Related terms

• geneA section of DNA that carries the instructions for making a protein or a functional RNA molecule; it is the basic unit of heredity passed from parents to children.
• nucleotideThe basic building block of DNA and RNA, made of a sugar, a phosphate group and one of four bases. Long chains of nucleotides form a DNA or RNA strand.
• double helixThe shape of a DNA molecule: two strands twisted around each other like a spiral staircase, with the bases forming the steps in the middle.
• RNARibonucleic acid: a usually single-stranded molecule, similar to DNA, that carries genetic information or helps make proteins. It uses the base uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
• DNA extractionThe process of separating and purifying DNA from cells or tissue, such as blood, saliva or plant leaves, so that it can be used for PCR or sequencing.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• DNA · Biology

More terms: DNA, Genes and Chromosomes

• genome
• chromosome
• base pair
• DNA replication
• locus