Unit 6: Topic 1 - DNA and RNA Structure Flashcards
What is the primary source of heritable information?
DNA and RNA. Through these molecules, genetic information is stored and passed on. This is through DNA replication, transcription, and translation, in which genetic information is copied and transcripted to an RNA molecule, which then, through translation, produces proteins that carry out the functions of an organism and determine its phenotype.
What is the structure of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)?
DNA is a double-helix structure consisting of four nucleotides (Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine, and Thymine) and a phosphate backbone (phosphodiester bonds bond deoxyribose sugars and phosphate groups). The strands of the helix are bonded with hydrogen bonds. Click here
What is the structure of RNA (ribonucleic acid)?
RNA is a single strand consisting of nitrogenous bases (Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine, Uracil), phosphate groups, and ribose sugars.
How do chromosome structures and locations differ in eukaryotes and prokaryotes?
Eukaryotic chromosomes are in the nucleus, while prokaryotic chromosomes are in the cytoplasm of the nucleoid. Eukaryotic chromosomes are linear DNA molecules wrapped around histones and have two or more chromosomes. A prokaryotic chromosome is a singular circular DNA molecule distinct from the plasmid.
What are plasmids and where are they found?
Plasmids are extrachromosomal, double-stranded, circular DNA molecules. These are most commonly found in the cytoplasm of bacteria, and sometimes in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Plasmids carry genes that can be advantageous to the survival of the organism/cell.
What are the nucleotide base pairings for DNA and RNA
(ex. Adenine pairs with _, Cytosine pairs with _…)
In DNA, Adenine pairs with Thymine, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine (A-T, C-G), while in RNA, Adenine pairs with Uracil, and Cytosine pairs with Guanine (A-U, C-G). Note: The two pairable nucleotides’ order is exchangeable; for instance, A-T and T-A are the same.
What are the purines and pyrimidines and what structures do they have?
Adenine and Guanine are purines that have a two-ring carbon structure. Cytosine, Thymine, and Uracil are pyrimidines that have a one-ring carbon structure. All of them contain nitrogen, carbon, and hydrogen.
