Multiple Choice
Chargoff's rules states that which nucleotide pairings occurred?
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7. DNA and Chromosome Structure
DNA Structure
1:55 minutesProblem 2
Textbook Question
Most center around DNA and RNA and their role of serving as the genetic material. Write a short essay that contrasts these molecules, including a comparison of advantages conferred by their structure that each of them has over the other in serving in this role.
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Start by explaining the basic structure of DNA and RNA. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a double-stranded molecule with a sugar-phosphate backbone and nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine). RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is single-stranded and contains uracil instead of thymine, along with a ribose sugar instead of deoxyribose.
Discuss the stability of DNA versus RNA. DNA's double-stranded structure and the absence of the hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 2' carbon of its sugar make it more chemically stable, which is advantageous for long-term storage of genetic information. RNA, with its single strand and ribose sugar, is less stable and more prone to degradation.
Highlight the functional versatility of RNA. RNA's single-stranded structure allows it to fold into complex three-dimensional shapes, enabling it to perform various roles such as catalysis (ribozymes), acting as a messenger (mRNA), and participating in protein synthesis (tRNA and rRNA). DNA lacks this versatility due to its rigid double-helix structure.
Compare the replication and error-checking mechanisms. DNA replication involves proofreading and repair mechanisms that ensure high fidelity, which is crucial for maintaining genetic integrity over generations. RNA synthesis (transcription) is less accurate, but this is less critical since RNA is transient and not used for long-term information storage.
Conclude by summarizing the advantages of each molecule. DNA's stability and error-checking mechanisms make it ideal for long-term genetic storage, while RNA's structural flexibility and functional diversity allow it to play dynamic roles in gene expression and regulation.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Structure of DNA
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a double-stranded helix composed of nucleotides, which include a sugar, phosphate group, and nitrogenous base. Its stable structure allows for the long-term storage of genetic information. The complementary base pairing (adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine) ensures accurate replication and transmission of genetic material during cell division.
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Structure of RNA
RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is typically single-stranded and consists of ribonucleotides, which differ from DNA in having ribose sugar and uracil instead of thymine. This structure allows RNA to be more versatile, enabling it to perform various functions such as messenger RNA (mRNA) in protein synthesis and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in forming ribosomes. Its transient nature facilitates quick responses to cellular needs.
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Function and Stability
The stability of DNA makes it ideal for long-term genetic storage, while RNA's less stable structure allows for rapid synthesis and degradation, which is crucial for regulating gene expression. DNA's double helix protects its genetic information from damage, whereas RNA's flexibility enables it to adopt various shapes for different functions. This contrast highlights how each molecule's structure supports its specific role in genetics.
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