Nucleic Acids: Structure, Base Pairing, and DNA vs RNA Differences

Nucleotide

The monomer of a nucleic acid (polymer).

Components of a Nucleotide

Each nucleotide is comprised of three parts: (1) Nitrogenous base, (2) Sugar, and (3) Phosphate group.

Nucleic Acids

Made of a chain of nucleotides arranged in a specific order.

3' end

The end of a nucleic acid strand with a hydroxyl group.

5' end

The end of a nucleic acid strand with a phosphate group.

Nucleotide Addition

New nucleotides are added to the 3' end of the growing strand, forming covalent bonds between the nucleotides.

Antiparallel Orientation

DNA has an antiparallel orientation where the two strands run in opposite directions (5' to 3') and (3' to 5').

Base Pairing in DNA

Adenine and Thymine will base pair.

Base Pairing in RNA

Adenine and Uracil will base pair.

Base Pairing in Both

Guanine and Cytosine will base pair.

DNA Structure

DNA is double stranded.

RNA Structure

RNA is single stranded.

Uracil and Thymine

Uracil is only found in RNA; Thymine is only found in DNA.

Deoxyribose and Ribose

Deoxyribose is found in DNA and Ribose is found in RNA.

DNA Location

DNA can't leave the nucleus.

RNA Location

RNA can be found throughout the cell.

Function of DNA

Stores genetic information that determines the structure and function of proteins.

Hereditary Material

DNA acts as the hereditary material passed from parent to offspring.

Instructions for Proteins

DNA provides the instructions for making all the proteins an organism needs.

Function of RNA

Transfers genetic information from DNA so proteins can be made.

Role of mRNA

mRNA (messenger RNA) carries the genetic code from DNA to ribosomes.

Role of tRNA

tRNA (transfer RNA) brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation.

Role of rRNA

rRNA (ribosomal RNA) is part of the ribosome and helps assemble proteins.