Nucleic acids

Definition

Nucleic acids are biopolymers essential for all known forms of life, comprising DNA and RNA. They encode genetic information and play a crucial role in the synthesis of proteins.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nucleic acids are made up of nucleotide monomers, which include a phosphate group, a sugar, and a nitrogenous base.
2. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) stores genetic information in cells, while RNA (ribonucleic acid) is involved in protein synthesis and regulation.
3. The structure of DNA is a double helix formed by complementary base pairing (A-T and G-C).
4. RNA molecules can be messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), or ribosomal RNA (rRNA), each serving different functions in protein synthesis.
5. During pathogen recognition and phagocytosis, nucleic acids from pathogens can trigger innate immune responses through receptors like Toll-like receptors.

Review Questions

• What are the main components of a nucleotide?
• How do DNA and RNA differ in their roles within the cell?
• Name three types of RNA and their functions.

Related terms

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

Double Helix: The structure formed by double-stranded molecules of nucleic acids such as DNA.

Toll-like Receptors: A class of proteins that play a key role in the innate immune system by recognizing molecules derived from microbes.