How is a gene defined?

A gene is correctly defined as a sequence of nucleotides along a strand of DNA. This definition encompasses the fundamental role of genes in genetics, as they are segments of DNA that contain the instructions necessary for producing proteins. Proteins are essential for various functions within an organism, contributing to traits, functioning of cells, and biological processes.

The sequence of nucleotides in a gene guarantees the correct production of proteins through the processes of transcription and translation. During transcription, the sequence of nucleotides in the DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA), which then guides the synthesis of proteins in a process called translation. Thus, the structure of a gene as a sequence of nucleotide bases is critical to understanding how genetic information is stored and expressed in living organisms.