Structure and functions of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA)
Chemical composition and molecular structure of DNA and RNA
Nucleic acids—DNA and RNA—are fundamental biomolecules responsible for genetic information storage and protein synthesis.
Structure and Functions of Nucleic Acids (DNA and RNA)
Chemical Composition and Molecular Structure
Nucleic acids—DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid)—are essential biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information. Their molecular structure comprises nucleotides, each consisting of a phosphate group, a sugar molecule, and a nitrogenous base.
DNA Structure
- DNA is a double-stranded helix, composed of nucleotides containing a deoxyribose sugar.
- Its nitrogenous bases include adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G).
- Hydrogen bonding between bases follows the complementary rule: A pairs with T, and C pairs with G.
RNA Structure
- RNA is a single-stranded nucleic acid containing ribose sugar.
- It has uracil (U) instead of thymine (T), pairing with adenine (A).
- RNA types include messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA), each serving distinct functions.
Functions of Nucleic Acids
DNA Functions
DNA serves as the genetic blueprint in cells, storing hereditary information and guiding protein synthesis.
RNA Functions
RNA is crucial in gene expression, helping transfer genetic code from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.
Conclusion
Understanding the structure and function of nucleic acids is fundamental to molecular biology and genetics, influencing research in medicine, genetic engineering, and disease treatment.
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Structure and functions of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA)
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Structure and functions of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA)
