Is all of a persons DNA used to create the body?

This is a common question. After learning about translation in A-level biology and the importance of converting DNA into proteins (the building block of organisms), students often assume that all DNA is used in this way. In fact, lots of your DNA is never translated. This DNA is referred to as 'junk DNA' and scientists are still not sure exactly what it's used for. Nevertheless, although it is not translated into proteins, this 'junk' DNA is still important and without it, the early embryo would not develop into an organism.