How are genes related to DNA

DNA, chromosomes and genes. Every cell in your body contains DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). DNA, the genetic code for your body, exists as two long, paired strands spiraled into a double helix called a chromosome. DNA is like a blueprint that tells your body how to grow and develop.

Each cell of a living organism contains a set of instructions that explains how to build the various components of the plant, animal, fungus or bacteria. DNA is the substance that living things use to carry these instructions. DNA groups itself in discrete clusters that supply the code for a given trait. Scientists refer to each of these clusters as genes.