Genetic Information Structures

Nucleic Acids

Macromolecules that hold genetic material.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, genetic blueprint.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, involved in protein synthesis.

Nucleotides

Monomers that make up nucleic acids.

Sugar

Component of nucleotides; deoxyribose or ribose.

Phosphate

Part of nucleotide structure, links nucleotides.

Nitrogen Base

A, T, C, G (DNA); A, U, C, G (RNA).

Double Helix

DNA structure resembling a twisted ladder.

Sugar Phosphate Backbone

Structural framework of DNA, formed by sugars and phosphates.

Complementary Base Pairing

A pairs with T; C pairs with G.

Chargaff's Rules

A=T and C=G in DNA structure.

Antiparallel Strands

DNA strands run in opposite directions.

DNA Replication

Process of copying DNA before cell division.

Helicase

Enzyme that unzips DNA during replication.

DNA Polymerase

Enzyme that adds nucleotides during DNA synthesis.

Primase

Enzyme that synthesizes RNA primers for DNA replication.

Okazaki Fragments

Short DNA pieces on lagging strand.

Leading Strand

Continuous DNA strand synthesized toward replication fork.

Lagging Strand

Discontinuous DNA strand synthesized away from replication fork.

Semi-Conservative Replication

Each new DNA molecule contains one old and one new strand.

Gene

Section of DNA coding for a protein.

Chromosome

Tightly coiled DNA structure containing many genes.

Interphase S Phase

Phase where DNA replication occurs.

DNA Ligase

Enzyme that connects DNA fragments by forming bonds.