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10: DNA and RNA - An Introduction
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10.1: Nucleotides - The Building Blocks of Nucleic Acids
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Nucleotides are composed of three sub-units: a monosaccharide, an aromatic amine , and a phosphate.
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10.2: Polynucleotides
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Polynucleotides are formed from nucleotides joined together through the phosphate group of one nucleotide to the OH group on the third carbon atom of the sugar of a second nucleotide.
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10.3: Nucleic Acid Structure
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DNA is the nucleic acid that stores genetic information. RNA is the nucleic acid responsible for using the genetic information in DNA to produce proteins. Nucleotides are joined together to form nucleic acids.
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10.4: Replication of DNA
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In DNA replication, each strand of the original DNA serves as a template for the synthesis of a complementary strand. DNA polymerase is the primary enzyme needed for replication.
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10.5: Transcription
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In transcription, a segment of DNA serves as a template for the synthesis of an RNA sequence. RNA polymerase is the primary enzyme needed for transcription. Three types of RNA are formed during transcription: mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA.
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10.6: Translation and the Genetic Code
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In translation, the information in mRNA directs the order of amino acids in protein synthesis. A set of three nucleotides called codon codes for a specific amino acid.
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10.7: Mutations and Genetic Diseases
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The nucleotide sequence in DNA may be modified either spontaneously or from exposure to heat, radiation, or certain chemicals and can lead to mutations.
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10.8: End of Chapter Problems
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This problem set is based on Chapter 10 topics.