Summary
DNA and RNA, polymers of nucleotides that store and transmit genetic information.
In depth
DNA stores genetic information, and RNA transmits and uses it. Polynucleotide strands have a sugar-phosphate backbone with a 5 prime to 3 prime direction and bases projecting inward. They are also present in energy molecules (ATP) and coenzymes.
The sequence of bases is the code: purines (A, G) have two rings and pyrimidines (C, T, U) have one.
Key idea: complementary base pairing allows accurate copying and reading of information.
Both DNA and RNA are polymers of nucleotides, but they differ in sugar (deoxyribose or ribose), one base (thymine in DNA, uracil in RNA) and usually in strandedness. DNA is more chemically stable because it lacks the 2 prime hydroxyl that can attack the backbone, which suits long-term storage.
Nucleic acid discovery was gradual: Miescher isolated nuclein in 1869, Griffith, Avery and later Hershey and Chase showed in the 1940s and 50s that DNA is the genetic material, and Watson, Crick, Wilkins and Franklin's data revealed the structure in 1953.
Remember: the sequence of bases is the information, and the sequence is always written 5 prime to 3 prime.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nucleic Acids?
DNA and RNA, polymers of nucleotides that store and transmit genetic information.
Which area of biology covers Nucleic Acids, and how advanced is it?
Nucleic Acids is one of the 51 topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include DNA Structure, Nucleotides, Monosaccharides.
What should I learn before Nucleic Acids?
Nucleic Acids is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry that pair well with it include Water Properties, Carbon Chemistry, Carbohydrates.
What topics are related to Nucleic Acids?
The closest topics to Nucleic Acids are DNA Structure, Nucleotides, Monosaccharides, Carbon Chemistry. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Nucleic Acids?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Nucleic Acids. To practise the whole of Biomolecules & Biochemistry, use the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz.
How is Nucleic Acids different from DNA Structure?
Nucleic Acids: DNA and RNA, polymers of nucleotides that store and transmit genetic information. DNA Structure: Two antiparallel strands of nucleotides wound into a double helix, held together by base pairing. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Nucleic Acids step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with DNA Structure and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.