nucleic acids

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

A double-stranded molecule formed from polymerizing nucleotides, containing genetic instructions for living organisms.

Nucleotide

The monomer unit of DNA and RNA, consisting of a phosphate group, a pentose sugar, and a nitrogen-containing base.

Friedrich Miescher

Scientist who first isolated nucleic acids from white blood cells, leading to the discovery of DNA.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

A single-stranded molecule responsible for transferring genetic information from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

Nuclein

The original term used to describe the weak acidic substance that later became known as nucleic acids.

Base Pairing

Specific pairing of adenine-thymine and guanine-cytosine in DNA, and adenine-uracil and guanine-cytosine in RNA.

Helix Geometry

DNA forms a B-form helix, while RNA forms an A-form helix.

Self-Replicating

DNA has the ability to replicate itself, ensuring the transmission of genetic information to daughter cells.

Grooves

DNA has smaller grooves, making it harder for enzymes to attack, while RNA has larger grooves, making it more susceptible to enzyme action.

Stability

DNA is more stable due to deoxyribose sugar with C-H bonds, while RNA is less stable due to ribose sugar with C-OH bonds.