- Nucleic acids are biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information.
- They are made of nucleotides, which are the building blocks.
- Two main types: DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid).
Structure of Nucleotides
Each nucleotide has three parts:
- Nitrogenous base – A, T, G, C (DNA) or A, U, G, C (RNA)
- Sugar – Deoxyribose (DNA) or Ribose (RNA)
- Phosphate group – Links nucleotides together
Functions of Nucleic Acids
- Storage of Genetic Information
- DNA stores instructions for building proteins and controlling cell functions.
- Transmission of Genetic Information
- RNA carries genetic instructions from DNA to make proteins.
- Protein Synthesis
- RNA (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA) helps assemble amino acids into proteins.
- Energy Transfer (Special Case)
- Some nucleotides like ATP and GTP provide energy for cellular processes.
In short:
Nucleic acids = DNA and RNA, made of nucleotides, that store, transmit, and help use genetic information in cells.