Structure and Function of Cells
Definitions
Protein:
A macromolecule made up of chains of amino acids folded into a specific three-dimensional structure. Proteins perform various functions in the body, such as catalyzing biochemical reactions (enzymes), providing structural support, and facilitating communication and transport within and between cells.Nucleotides:
The basic building blocks of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). Each nucleotide consists of three components: a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. Nucleotides are essential for storing and transferring genetic information.DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid):
A double-stranded nucleic acid molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of living organisms. DNA is composed of nucleotides with deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine).RNA (Ribonucleic Acid):
A single-stranded nucleic acid molecule that plays a key role in converting the genetic information in DNA into proteins. RNA contains ribose sugar and uses uracil instead of thymine as one of its nitrogenous bases.Genes:
Segments of DNA that contain the instructions for building proteins. Each gene specifies the sequence of amino acids in a protein, determining its structure and function.Sugar Molecule:
A component of a nucleotide, it serves as the backbone of DNA and RNA. In DNA, the sugar is deoxyribose, and in RNA, the sugar is ribose.Phosphate Group:
A molecule containing one phosphorus atom bonded to four oxygen atoms, it forms the structural framework of DNA and RNA by linking sugar molecules in the nucleotide chain.Nitrogenous Base:
The component of a nucleotide that carries genetic information. In DNA, the bases are adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine (G). In RNA, uracil (U) replaces thymine.Nucleic Acid:
A class of macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information in living organisms. The two types of nucleic acids are DNA and RNA, composed of chains of nucleotides.Hemoglobin: