Nucleic Acids Explained | DNA & RNA Structure,Types and Functions #alliedhealthsciences #nucleicacid

Definition Nucleic acids are large biological macromolecules that store, transmit, and express genetic information in all living organisms and many viruses. They control heredity, protein synthesis, and cellular activities. Types of Nucleic Acids There are two main types: 1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) Genetic material of most living organisms Stores hereditary information Located mainly in the nucleus (also in mitochondria and chloroplasts) 2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) Involved in protein synthesis Found in nucleus and cytoplasm Acts as a messenger and functional molecule Basic Unit: Nucleotide Nucleic acids are polymers made up of nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of: Nitrogenous base Pentose sugar Phosphate group Nitrogenous Bases Purines (double ring) Adenine (A) Guanine (G) Pyrimidines (single ring) Cytosine (C) Thymine (T) → DNA only Uracil (U) → RNA only