Nucleic Acids – The Blueprint of Life
Nucleic acids are fundamental biomolecules responsible for the storage, transmission, and expression of genetic information in all living organisms. They are rightly called the blueprint of life because they control heredity, cellular functions, and protein synthesis.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Nucleic Acids
- Types of Nucleic Acids
- Structure of Nucleic Acids
- DNA – The Blueprint of Life
- RNA – The Messenger Molecule
- Functions of Nucleic Acids
- Biological Importance
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Quiz on Nucleic Acids
Introduction
Nucleic acids are high-molecular-weight organic compounds found in all living cells. They store genetic instructions and ensure their accurate transmission from one generation to the next.
The two main nucleic acid are DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic Acid).
Types
1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
- Stores hereditary information
- Controls cell structure and function
- Found mainly in the nucleus
2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)
- Helps in protein synthesis
- Transfers genetic information from DNA
- Present in nucleus and cytoplasm
Structure
Both DNA and RNA are polymers made up of repeating units called nucleotides.
Each nucleotide consists of:
- Nitrogenous base
- Purines: Adenine (A), Guanine (G)
- Pyrimidines: Cytosine (C), Thymine (T – DNA), Uracil (U – RNA)
- Pentose sugar (Deoxyribose in DNA, Ribose in RNA)
- Phosphate group
DNA – The Blueprint of Life
DNA is a double-stranded, helical molecule that contains the complete genetic instructions required for the development and functioning of organisms.
- Bases: Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), Guanine (G)
- Base pairing: A–T and C–G
- Held together by hydrogen bonds
- Located in the nucleus (eukaryotes)
RNA – The Messenger Molecule
RNA is usually single-stranded and plays a vital role in translating genetic information into proteins.
Types of RNA
| Type | Function |
|---|---|
| mRNA | Carries genetic code from DNA to ribosome |
| tRNA | Transfers amino acids during protein synthesis |
| rRNA | Forms structural part of ribosome |
Functions
- Storage of genetic information
- Protein synthesis
- Regulation of gene expression
- Transmission of hereditary traits
Biological Importance
Without nucleic acid, life cannot exist. They maintain continuity of life, control metabolism, and ensure accurate reproduction.
Biomolecules | Proteins | Carbohydrates
Frequently Asked Questions
What are nucleic acid?
Nucleic acid are biomolecules that store and transmit genetic information.
Difference between DNA and RNA?
DNA stores genetic information permanently, while RNA helps in protein synthesis.
Why are nucleic acid important?
They control heredity, protein formation, and cellular activities.
Quiz
MCQs
1. Which sugar is present in DNA?
b) Deoxyribose
2. Which base is present in RNA but absent in DNA?
b) Uracil
True / False
DNA contains uracil – False
RNA plays a role in protein synthesis – True
Fill in the Blanks
DNA is made of __________ → Nucleotides
In RNA, thymine is replaced by __________ → Uracil
