Genetic information refers to the instructions found in an organism's DNA that determine its traits and characteristics. This information is organized into units called genes, which are segments of DNA that code for specific proteins. These proteins play crucial roles in the development, functioning, and reproduction of living organisms. In humans and many other organisms, genetic information is inherited from parents, meaning that offspring receive a combination of genes from both mother and father. This inheritance process contributes to the diversity of traits seen within a population, as variations in genetic information can lead to different physical features, behaviors, and susceptibilities to diseases.