Nucleic Acids and Nucleotides PDF

Nucleic Acids and Nucleotides Nucleic acids are essential biomolecules found in all living organisms. They are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information, crucial for life processes such as growth, development, and reproduction. by Reydo Gillado Structure of Nucleic Acids Mon...

Nucleic Acids and Nucleotides Nucleic acids are essential biomolecules found in all living organisms. They are responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information, crucial for life processes such as growth, development, and reproduction. by Reydo Gillado Structure of Nucleic Acids Monomers: Nucleotides Polymer Chains Double Helix Nucleic acids are polymers made Nucleotides join together through DNA exists as a double helix, two up of repeating subunits called phosphodiester bonds to form long polynucleotide chains wound nucleotides. Each nucleotide chains. The sequence of around each other. The bases of consists of a sugar, a phosphate nucleotides in a chain determines one chain pair with complementary group, and a nitrogenous base. the genetic information it carries. bases on the other chain, forming a stable structure. Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) 1 Genetic Blueprint 2 Replication DNA contains the genetic DNA can replicate itself, instructions for building ensuring that daughter and maintaining an cells receive a complete organism. This copy of the genetic information is encoded in information. the sequence of nucleotides. 3 Double-Stranded DNA is a double-stranded molecule, with two polynucleotide chains held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs. Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) 1 Transcription RNA is synthesized from DNA through a process called transcription, using DNA as a template. 2 Protein Synthesis RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, carrying genetic information from DNA to ribosomes, where proteins are assembled. 3 Single-Stranded RNA is typically a single-stranded molecule, although it can fold into complex three-dimensional structures. Nucleotide Composition Nucleotide DNA Base RNA Base Adenine Adenine (A) Adenine (A) Guanine Guanine (G) Guanine (G) Cytosine Cytosine (C) Cytosine (C) Thymine Thymine (T) Uracil (U) Nucleotide Functions Genetic Information Energy Carriers Nucleotides form the ATP (adenosine building blocks of DNA and triphosphate) is a key RNA, carrying the genetic energy carrier in cells, information essential for life. providing energy for various cellular processes. Cellular Signaling Cyclic AMP (cAMP) acts as a second messenger in cellular signaling pathways, relaying signals from the cell surface to the interior. Importance of Nucleic Acids Genetic Inheritance DNA transmits genetic information from one generation to the next, ensuring continuity of life. Protein Synthesis RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, enabling the production of proteins essential for all cellular functions. Evolution and Adaptation Mutations in DNA can lead to genetic variations, driving evolution and adaptation of species to changing environments. Applications of Nucleic Acids Genetic Engineering DNA technology allows for the manipulation of genes, with applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Forensic Science DNA profiling is used to identify individuals and solve crimes, leveraging the unique genetic signature of each person. Medical Diagnosis Genetic testing helps identify disease-causing mutations and provides insights into individual susceptibility to certain conditions.