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Template:Nucleic Acids Glossary

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Nucleic Acids Glossary
  • DNA – deoxyribonucleic acid; molecule making up the genetic material in all living cells. Double stranded
  • RNA – ribonucleic acid; molecule used to transfer genetic material to ribosomes; contains (some) viruses entire genome, but not all. Single stranded
  • nucleotide – a single monomer making up DNA and RNA
  • base – cytosine, guanine, thymine, uracil, adenine; complementary to bases, only allowing (A,T/U), (G,C) to bind together (with H-bonds)
  • semi-conservative replication – the theory stating that, during DNA replication, 1 strand is new, and 1 strand is old. Ensures genetic continuity between cells, reducing the likelihood of mutations