Nucleic acid
Nucleic Acid
Nucleic acids (pronounced: new-klee-ik as-id) are biopolymers, or large biomolecules, essential for all known forms of life. They are composed of nucleotides, which are the monomers made of three components: a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The two main types of nucleic acids are deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA).
Etymology
The term "nucleic acid" is derived from the term "nucleus," where these acids were first discovered within cells. The term "acid" refers to the acidic properties of these molecules.
Types of Nucleic Acids
There are two types of nucleic acids:
- DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid): DNA is a double-stranded molecule that stores the genetic information of an organism. It is composed of two strands of nucleotides that are twisted around each other to form a double helix.
- RNA (Ribonucleic Acid): RNA is usually a single-stranded molecule that plays crucial roles in protein synthesis and other cell activities. There are several types of RNA, including messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA).
Functions of Nucleic Acids
Nucleic acids have various functions in the body:
- Genetic Information Storage: DNA stores the genetic information that determines the characteristics of a living organism.
- Protein Synthesis: RNA is involved in the process of protein synthesis where the genetic information in DNA is translated into proteins.
- Regulation of Gene Expression: Some types of RNA, such as microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA), are involved in the regulation of gene expression.
Related Terms
- Nucleotide: The building block of nucleic acids.
- Base Pair: A pair of complementary bases in a double-stranded nucleic acid molecule.
- Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nucleic acid
- Wikipedia's article - Nucleic acid
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