What is the function of DNA in the human body?

The function of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is to give genetic instruction to organic beings. DNA stores information to tell cells how to function, passing it on to the next generation of life through cells. It also helps in development.

In humans, half of the DNA for a child comes from the father and half from the mother. It is able to replicate itself for new cells because of its double helix structure. Each nitrogen base on the DNA strand is only able to pair with one other nitrogen base; therefore, when it splits, the DNA knows what to pair with each nitrogen base to complete a new strand.