Genetic code. Conceptual computer artwork of binary code (zeros and ones) with base sequences (letters), representing the genetic code. Some of the binary code forms the shape of a DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) helix (white, upper right). The helix carries the genetic code, which controls and transmits an organism's hereditary traits. It is composed of twisting strands linked by pairs of nucleotide bases. There are four types of base; adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C) and thymine (T). The sequence of base pairs, arranged in discrete segments known as genes, determines the genetic code. Binary code is another method of storing information.