In eukaryotes, much of the nuclear DNA does not code for polypeptides (non-coding sequences between genes)
Most DNA in a eukaryotic cell's nucleus does not carry instructions for making proteins. Large stretches of DNA sit between genes and do not code for any polypeptide.
Real World
Only ~1.5% of the human genome encodes proteins; the ENCODE project (2012) revealed that much of the remaining non-coding DNA — once labelled 'junk' — contains regulatory sequences that switch genes on and off.
Exam Focus
Credit requires mentioning non-coding DNA occurs both between genes and within genes (as introns) — state both locations explicitly.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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