DNA sample. Computer artwork of a sample of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) in a test tube. DNA encodes the hereditary characteristics of living organisms. It consists of two strands that wind around each other in a double helix. The strands each have a sugar-phosphate backbone and are connected by four types of molecular groups known as bases. The exact sequence of bases along the length of the DNA determines the genetic code. Samples of DNA are used to look into the causes of inherited disease, to carry out paternity tests, to convict criminals and in general genetic research.