Big Idea 3: Information
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Genetic information provides for continuity of life and the information is passed from parent to offspring through DNA. The double-stranded structure of DNA provides a simple and elegant solution for the transmission of heritable information to the next generation. Using each strand as a template, existing information can be preserved and duplicated with high fidelity within the replication process. However, there could be imperfect, and errors occur through chemical instability and environmental impacts. Random changes in DNA nucleotide sequences lead to heritable mutations if they are not repaired. To protect against changes in the original sequence, cells have multiple mechanisms to correct errors. Enzymes, some mutations are not corrected and are passed to subsequent generations. Changes in a nucleotide sequence, if present in a protein-coding region, can change the amino acid sequence of the polypeptide, but there can be innocent mutations that are harmless as well called silent mutation. In order for information in DNA to direct cellular processes, information must be transcribed (DNA→RNA) and, in many cases, translated (RNA→protein).