DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is found in various locations within living organisms, primarily in the following areas:
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Nucleus: In eukaryotic cells (cells with a nucleus), the majority of the DNA is located in the cell nucleus. It is organized into structures called chromosomes.
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Mitochondria: Eukaryotic cells also contain mitochondria, which have their own small circular DNA, known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This DNA is inherited maternally and plays a crucial role in cellular energy production.
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Chloroplasts: In plant cells, chloroplasts (the sites of photosynthesis) also contain their own DNA, similar to mitochondrial DNA.
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Cytoplasm: In prokaryotic cells (cells without a nucleus, such as bacteria), DNA is found in the cytoplasm in a region called the nucleoid. Prokaryotic DNA is typically organized in a single circular chromosome.
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Extrachromosomal DNA: Additionally, some cells can contain extrachromosomal DNA in the form of plasmids, which are small circular DNA molecules found in bacteria and some eukaryotic cells, often carrying genes that provide additional traits (like antibiotic resistance).
Overall, DNA is a crucial molecule found in every living organism, serving as the genetic blueprint for development, functioning, and reproduction.
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