Final answer:
The sequence of nucleotides in DNA determines the specific amino acid sequence of a protein, which in turn dictates the protein's function. Complementary mRNA is transcribed from DNA and guides protein synthesis. Even minor mutations in the nucleotide sequence can profoundly affect the resulting protein's properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sequence of nucleotides is critical for determining the type of protein produced inside the cell. Nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, which contain the genetic instructions for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses. As DNA is transcribed into mRNA, the nucleotide sequence dictates the sequence of amino acids in a protein, corresponding to the genetic code. A DNA sequence such as 3'......GCT GTC AAA TTC GAT......5' would be transcribed into a complementary mRNA sequence. Following the genetic code, this mRNA would then be translated into a specific amino acid sequence, constructing a protein with a unique function determined by its sequence.
Moreover, the primary structure of nucleic acids is described by the sequence of their nucleotides, such as 5'-dG-dT-dA-dC-3' or simply GTAC. This information is central to the biology of life, as even simple alterations, or mutations, in the nucleotide sequence can result in different properties and lead to changes in the corresponding protein sequence. The vast potential combinations of the four nucleotides A, C, G, T (or U in RNA) enable the complexity and diversity of life forms on Earth.