What does DNA do in our body?

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) plays a central role in all known forms of life and has several basic functions in the body:

1. Information storage: DNA stores the genetic information necessary to build and maintain an organism. This information determines everything from eye color to the type of immune response to disease.

2. Protein production: DNA contains instructions for making proteins that serve as the building blocks and machinery of cells. These proteins carry out many important functions, including cell growth, repair and metabolism.

3. Replication: During cell division, DNA must be copied so that each new cell receives a complete copy of the genetic material. This ensures that genetic information is passed on from one generation to the next.

4. Regulation: DNA also contains regions that regulate when, how and how much of each protein is made in a cell. This regulation is crucial for adaptation to changing environments and development during the life cycle.

The sequence of DNA therefore determines how an organism looks, functions and responds to its environment. These processes are carried out by translating DNA into RNA and then into proteins, a process known as gene expression.

What does it mean for the body when DNA is damaged?

When the DNA in the body's cells is damaged, it can have different effects depending on how severe the damage is and which cells are affected. Here are some possible consequences:

1. Repair mechanisms: cells have special mechanisms to recognize and repair DNA damage. If the damage is minor, the cell can often correct it and restore its normal function.

2. Cell aging or death: If the damage is too extensive to be repaired, it can result in the cell no longer functioning properly. In such cases, the cell can either enter a state of senescence (ageing) or die through programmed cell death (apoptosis). This is a natural protective mechanism to prevent damaged DNA from being passed on.

3. Mutations: If DNA damage is not repaired correctly, mutations can occur. These are permanent changes in the DNA sequence that can be passed on from the cell to the daughter cells during division.

4. Cancer development: One of the most serious consequences of DNA damage is the possibility of developing cancer. Mutations in certain genes responsible for cell growth and division can lead to uncontrolled cell division and tumor growth.

5. Diseases and genetic disorders: DNA damage can also lead to various genetic disorders and diseases when it occurs in genes that regulate important body functions.

6. Reproductive effects: DNA damage in germ cells (sperm or eggs) can lead to fertility problems or pass on genetic defects to offspring.

The way in which the body reacts to DNA damage is therefore complex and depends heavily on the extent of the damage and the tissue affected.

DNA repair and the positive effects on the body

DNA repair has several positive effects on the organism that are essential for the survival and health of cells and organisms. Here are some of the most important benefits:

1. Prevention of mutations: DNA repair mechanisms help correct errors made during DNA replication or due to environmental factors such as UV radiation and chemical exposure. By correcting these errors, mutations are prevented that could otherwise lead to faulty proteins and potentially cause cellular dysfunction or disease.

2. Protection against cancer: Many forms of cancer are caused by genetic mutations that affect cell division and growth. Efficient DNA repair mechanisms can correct such mutations and thus reduce the risk of cancer cells forming and multiplying.

3. Maintaining genetic integrity: DNA repair contributes to the stability of the genome by ensuring that genetic information is passed on correctly from generation to generation. This is important for the preservation of the species and for accurate genetic transmission in reproduction.

4. Slowing down the ageing process: Damage to DNA can accumulate over the life of a cell and contribute to the aging process. Repair systems that efficiently repair this damage can help to slow down the ageing process and extend the lifespan of cells and thus the entire organism.

5. Supporting the immune response: DNA repair is also important for the proper functioning of the immune system. Cells of the immune system must divide and differentiate rapidly to respond to threats. Maintaining DNA integrity in these cells is crucial for an effective immune response.

These benefits demonstrate how critical DNA repair is to the health and well-being of organisms. Disruptions in DNA repair mechanisms can lead to a variety of diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and premature aging symptoms.