DNA/RNA Flashcards
adenine
a compound that is one of the four constituent bases of nucleic acids. A purine derivative, it is paired with thymine in double-stranded DNA.
cytosine
a compound found in living tissue as a constituent base of nucleic acids. It is paired with guanine in double-stranded DNA.
DNA
DNA, which stands for deoxyribonucleic acid, is defined as a nucleic acid that contains the genetic code.
chromosomes
a threadlike structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
DNA replication
The process of making an identical copy of a section of duplex (double-stranded) DNA, using existing DNA as a template for the synthesis of new DNA strands. In humans and other eukaryotes, replication occurs in the cell nucleus.
double helix
a pair of parallel helices intertwined about a common axis, especially that in the structure of the DNA molecule.
gene
a unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring.
nitrogen bases
organic compound that has the chemical properties of a base, especially a pyrimidine or purine
guanin
a compound that occurs in guano and fish scales, and is one of the four constituent bases of nucleic acids. A purine derivative, it is paired with cytosine in double-stranded DNA.
RNA
ribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Its principal role is to act as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins, although in some viruses RNA rather than DNA carries the genetic information.
thymine
a compound that is one of the four constituent bases of nucleic acids. A pyrimidine derivative, it is paired with adenine in double-stranded DNA.
uracil
a compound found in living tissue as a constituent base of RNA. In DNA its place is taken by thymine.
