The term gene is used in biology to refer to a unit of heredity or a section of DNA that codes for specific characteristics. Genes are located on chromosomes and transmit hereditary traits from generation to generation. Every living organism has two copies of each gene: one inherited from its mother and another from its father.

Genes contain instructions that tell cells how to function, grow, develop, and reproduce; this information is contained within their nucleotide sequence, which can be modified through processes such as mutation or recombination. Mutations occur when there’s an alteration in the genetic code which can lead to changes in physical characteristics like eye color or height. In contrast, recombination occurs when genes mix during sexual reproduction creating new combinations with different traits than either parent had before mating occurred.

Genetic research has been ongoing since Gregor Mendel first proposed his theories about inheritance back in 1866; today, scientists use powerful tools such as genome sequencing technology to study genes more closely than ever before, allowing us better understand how they work together with other biological components like proteins & enzymes enabling us to identify potential treatments for diseases caused by faulty genetic coding – something we could only dream about just over 100 years ago!