DNA contains the genetic instructions for cell development, reproduction, and death of an organism. DNA is found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, wrapped around histone proteins to form chromatin. Chromosomes are always duplicated, forming two identical chromatids attached at the centromere. DNA is a polymer made of nucleotides, each containing a nitrogenous base, pentose sugar, and phosphate group. Purines and pyrimidines are the two types of nitrogenous bases that make specific base pairings in the DNA strands. DNA can be cloned to produce many identical copies and is used in applications like gene therapy, transgenic organisms, and solving crimes through genetic profiling.