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DNA is the genetic material The genes you have determine who you are (your species, identity) DNA is a chemical, a linear string of nucleotides, with sugar-phosphate backbone The backbone is highly negatively charged DNA bases pair based on Chargraff's rules The sequence of DNA bases determines the structure and function of the protein product DNA sequences are specific for individuals (similar but with small differences) Some proteins are enzymes that are machines that catalyze chemical reactions Some enzymes can cut DNA (restriciton enzymes) at specific DNA sequences (recognition sequences) Different individuals have different DNA sequences and different patterns of recognition sequences Mutations lead to minor (single-base pair) substitutions in DNA sequences After DNA is cut with reistriction enzymes, the fragments can be separated leading to a pattern of bands called a DNA fingerprint (RFLP) Gel electrophoresis uses electricity to move the negatively charged DNA fragments and separate based on their size (length) Each bands represents a DNA fragment of a particular size The distance migrated by DNA fragments of known size (standard markers) can be used to create a standard curve by which unknown bands are measured Related individuals will have related DNA fingerprints Comparing DNA sequences is the basis for taxonomy (speciation)
 * Add in that restriction digests can be used for cloning DNA fragments