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Overview On RNA and DNA

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13 views

Overview On RNA and DNA

Uploaded by

usmanopeyemiabdulfatai
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) are essential biomolecules that carry

and transmit genetic information, enabling the functioning and reproduction of all living
organisms. Below is a comprehensive overview of their structure, function, types, and
differences:

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1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Structure

Double Helix: DNA consists of two strands that coil around each other, forming a double helix.

Composition:

Sugar: Deoxyribose.

Nitrogenous Bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G).

Phosphate Group: Forms the backbone along with sugar.

Base Pairing: A pairs with T (via 2 hydrogen bonds), and G pairs with C (via 3 hydrogen bonds).

Antiparallel Strands: The two strands run in opposite directions (5’ to 3’ and 3’ to 5’).

Function

Genetic Storage: DNA stores genetic information used for growth, development, reproduction,
and repair.

Replication: DNA can replicate itself to pass genetic information to new cells.

Transcription: DNA serves as a template for RNA synthesis.

Types of DNA

Genomic DNA: Found in the cell nucleus, encoding genetic information.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA): Found in mitochondria, responsible for encoding mitochondrial


proteins.
Location

Found primarily in the cell nucleus but also in mitochondria.

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2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)

Structure

Single-Stranded: RNA is usually single-stranded but can fold into complex 3D structures.

Composition:

Sugar: Ribose.

Nitrogenous Bases: Adenine (A), Uracil (U), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G).

Phosphate Group: Forms the backbone along with sugar.

Base Pairing: A pairs with U, and G pairs with C (in complementary regions).

Function

Protein Synthesis: RNA acts as an intermediary between DNA and proteins.

Catalysis: Some RNA molecules (ribozymes) have catalytic activity.

Regulation: RNA regulates gene expression (e.g., microRNA, siRNA).

Types of RNA

1. mRNA (Messenger RNA):

Carries genetic instructions from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.


2. rRNA (Ribosomal RNA):

Structural and functional component of ribosomes.

3. tRNA (Transfer RNA):

Delivers amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.

4. Other RNAs:

snRNA: Involved in splicing.

miRNA: Regulates gene expression.

siRNA: Silences genes.

lncRNA: Long non-coding RNAs with regulatory roles.

Location

Found in the cytoplasm, nucleus, and ribosomes.

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3. Differences Between DNA and RNA

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4. DNA and RNA Interaction

Transcription:

DNA is transcribed into RNA by the enzyme RNA polymerase.


The RNA copy (mRNA) is complementary to the DNA template strand.

Translation:

mRNA is translated into proteins at ribosomes.

tRNA brings amino acids based on codons (triplets of bases in mRNA).

Replication:

DNA replicates itself during cell division.

RNA does not replicate but is synthesized anew during transcription.

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5. Key Processes Involving DNA and RNA

1. Replication (DNA → DNA):

Semi-conservative process ensuring genetic continuity.

Enzymes: DNA polymerase, helicase, ligase.

2. Transcription (DNA → RNA):

RNA polymerase synthesizes RNA using DNA as a template.

Produces mRNA, tRNA, or rRNA.

3. Translation (RNA → Protein):

mRNA codons dictate the sequence of amino acids in proteins.

Involves ribosomes, tRNA, and rRNA.


4. Reverse Transcription (RNA → DNA):

Reverse transcriptase synthesizes DNA from an RNA template (e.g., retroviruses like HIV).

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6. Importance of DNA and RNA in Biotechnology

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplifies DNA for research and diagnostics.

Gene Editing: CRISPR-Cas9 targets specific DNA sequences for modification.

RNA Vaccines: Use mRNA to encode antigens, e.g., COVID-19 vaccines.

Forensic Science: DNA profiling identifies individuals.

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7. Disorders and Diseases

DNA Mutations: Can cause genetic disorders (e.g., cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia).

RNA Malfunctions: Dysregulated RNA processes can lead to cancers or neurodegenerative


diseases.

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