Question

DNA and RNA are nucleic acids and are composed of nucleotides. The structure of nucleic acids has an effect on the function. Identify the type of chemical bond and describe the directionality of structure in DNA and RNA. Explain how a change in the subunits can affect their structure and function.

Answer 1

In DNA and RNA, nucleotides are bound by phosphodiester bonds with a distinct 5' to 3' directionality. Variations in the sequence of nucleotides can result in mutations affecting the structure and function of nucleic acids.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nucleic acids, DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic acid), are composed of nucleotides that form the genetic blueprint of organisms. DNA and RNA differ in structure, where DNA is a double helix, and RNA is usually single-stranded. Each nucleotide includes a pentose sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base, which vary between the two types (DNA has thymine while RNA has uracil). The chemical bonds that hold the nucleic acid structure together are phosphodiester bonds between the sugar of one nucleotide and the phosphate of the next. This bond forms the backbone of the strand with a distinct 5' to 3' directionality.

Hydrogen bonds between complementary bases in DNA provide additional stability and allow for the double-helical structure. Changes in the nucleotide sequence can lead to mutations which can affect both the structure and function of these nucleic acids. For example, a point mutation in DNA can result in the production of a dysfunctional protein, possibly leading to genetic diseases. Therefore, the integrity of the nucleotide sequence is crucial for the proper functioning of cellular processes, like protein synthesis.