Additional Functions of Nucleotides Flashcards
What is the chief energy molecule for storing energy from food?
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
ATP is critical for energy storage and transfer in cells.
What do ADP and AMP share in the energy storage cycle?
They share in the breakdown and recycling of ATP
ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and AMP (adenosine monophosphate) are products of ATP breakdown.
What are the three forms of adenine in cells?
AMP, ADP, ATP
These forms serve various functions including energy storage.
What happens to ATP when it is used as an energy source?
It breaks down into either AMP or ADP along with inorganic phosphate
This breakdown is essential for energy release.
What is GTP and its role in energy production?
Guanosine triphosphate (GTP) is used to store energy and can transfer a phosphate group to ADP to form ATP
GTP is involved in the citric acid cycle.
What is cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) often referred to as?
A second messenger
cAMP is involved in signaling pathways, particularly in response to hormones like adrenaline.
How does cAMP differ structurally from AMP?
cAMP has a cyclic phosphate connection
This structural difference allows cAMP to bind to specific proteins.
What is the role of structure in the function of nucleotides?
Structure determines function
Different structures of molecules like AMP and cAMP lead to different functionalities.
What is a coenzyme?
An organic, non-protein portion of an enzyme that aids in catalytic function
Coenzymes are essential for enzyme activity.
What is an example of a coenzyme mentioned in the text?
Flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)
FAD is involved in enzyme-catalyzed reactions by shuttling hydrogen atoms.
What is the structure of FAD composed of?
An ADP molecule, ribitol, and flavin
This structure is crucial for its function in enzymatic reactions.
List the functions of nucleic acids and nucleotides discussed.
- Energy storage
- Information storage
- Transmission molecules
- Coenzymes
- Communication molecules
These functions highlight the versatility of nucleotides in biological processes.
