Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Adenine is one of the four nitrogenous bases in DNA and RNA, pairing with thymine in DNA and uracil in RNA. It plays a crucial role in encoding genetic information.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Adenine pairs with thymine via two hydrogen bonds in DNA.
In RNA, adenine pairs with uracil instead of thymine.
Adenine is a purine base, which means it has a double-ring structure.
It is essential for the formation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a key energy carrier in cells.
Mutations involving adenine can lead to genetic disorders or diseases.