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Biology - Genes

Genes

Genes [1] vary in size from about 3 000 - 50 000 base pairs (3-50 kbp),
depending on the particular gene and the organism.

Genes [2] code for the production of proteins which are composed of
sub-units called amino acids. [3] Structural, functional and regulatory
proteins determine the characteristics of the organism. For example:

* proteins form hormones, e.g. insulin, antibodies, the keratin of hair
and claws;

* proteins are involved in transport e.g. haemoglobin which transports
O2;

* enzymes (proteins) control chemical reactions;

* contractile proteins (actin, Miocene) in cells enable muscular
activity.

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Links:
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[1] http://alison.com/#
[2] http://alison.com/#
[3] http://alison.com/#