DNA and RNA Structure

Structure of DNA and RNA

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

• Structure: Double helix made up of nucleotides consisting of a sugar (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and nitrogenous bases.

  • Sequence of the nitrogenous bases carries the genetic information that resultis in the differences we see within each organism on the planet and plays a crucial role in the processes of replication and transcription.

• Nitrogenous Bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G).

• Base Pairing Rules: A pairs with T, and C pairs with G.

• Location: Primarily found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells; in prokaryotes, it is located in the cytoplasm.

• Function: Stores genetic information and provides instructions for protein synthesis.

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

• Structure: Single-stranded nucleic acid composed of nucleotides containing a sugar (ribose), a phosphate group, and nitrogenous bases.

• Nitrogenous Bases: Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G).

• Base Pairing Rules: A pairs with U, and C pairs with G (in RNA).

• Location: Can be found in the nucleus and cytoplasm of cells.

• Function: Plays crucial roles in protein synthesis, including messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA).

Key Differences Between DNA and RNA

• Structure: DNA is double-stranded; RNA is single-stranded.

• Sugar: DNA contains deoxyribose; RNA contains ribose.

• Bases: DNA has thymine; RNA has uracil instead of thymine.

• Function: DNA stores genetic information; RNA is involved in protein synthesis and gene expression.