STRUCTURES or DNA and RNA

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on DNA and RNA, focusing on their structure, functions, and processes.

DNA

The warehouse of information contained in the nucleus of cells.

RNA

A copy of DNA that leaves the nucleus to help in protein synthesis.

Alcohol Dehydrogenase

Enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the body.

Central Dogma

Theory that describes the flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein.

Nucleotide

The basic building block of nucleic acids, consisting of a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base.

Purine

A type of nitrogenous base with two rings; examples include adenine and guanine.

Pyrimidine

A type of nitrogenous base with a single ring; examples include cytosine, thymine, and uracil.

Dehydration Synthesis

A chemical process where molecules are combined by removing water.

Hydrolysis

The process of breaking down molecules by adding water.

Phosphodiester Bond

A bond that links nucleotides in nucleic acids; formed between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the sugar of another.

Antiparallel

Referring to the opposite orientation of the two strands of DNA.

Double Helix

The structure of DNA, consisting of two intertwined strands.

Genome

The complete set of genetic material in an organism.

Hydrogen Bonds

Weak bonds between nitrogenous bases that hold the two strands of DNA together.

Directionality of DNA

DNA has a 5' end (phosphate) and a 3' end (hydroxyl) that determines how it is synthesized.

Transcription

The process by which RNA is synthesized from a DNA template.

Translation

The process by which proteins are synthesized from RNA.

Nucleic Acid

Molecules made up of nucleotides, including DNA and RNA.

Nucleotide Composition of DNA

DNA consists of adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine.

Nucleotide Composition of RNA

RNA consists of adenine, uracil, guanine, and cytosine.

Stable vs Unstable

DNA is stable for long periods, while RNA is relatively unstable and degrades quickly.