Search or ask a question

What are the functions of nucleic acids?

Ligase ribozyme

Best insight from top research papers

Nucleic acids play essential roles in all biological processes related to genetic information, such as replication, transcription, translation, repair, and recombination . They are also emerging as powerful and functional biomaterials with molecular recognition ability, programmability, and ease of synthesis and chemical modification . Nucleic acids have been used as gene regulation tools, therapeutic agents for genetic disorders, and sensing platforms for detecting ions, small molecules, proteins, and cells . They can be chemically modified to enhance their biological properties and used as building blocks for self-assembly of highly ordered nanostructures . Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, contain genetic information and participate in protein synthesis . DNA forms a double helix structure and is associated with proteins to form chromatin . RNA is single-stranded and has various types involved in different cellular processes . Nucleic acids also have functional potential beyond information storage and transfer, including generating unusual products, catalyzing complex reactions, encoding overlapping ribozymes, and functioning in extreme conditions .

Answers from top 5 papers

PDF

Open Access

More filters

Papers (5)	Insight
Open access•Journal Article•DOI Pushing the Limits of Nucleic Acid Function Edward A. Curtis 22 Aug 2022-Chemistry - European Journal 1 Citations	The paper states that for many decades it was thought that information storage and transfer were the main functions of nucleic acids.
Book Chapter•DOI Nucleic acids 01 Jan 2022	The functions of nucleic acids include containing genetic information and participating in protein synthesis.
Open access•Journal Article•DOI Nucleic Acids and Their Analogues for Biomedical Applications Fei Wang, Pan Li, Hoi Ching Chu, Pik Kwan Lo - Show less +3 more 01 Feb 2022-Biosensors 15 Citations	The functions of nucleic acids mentioned in the paper include gene regulation, sensing and detection, bioimaging, drug delivery, and disease therapy.
Open access•Journal Article•DOI New Understandings from the Biophysical Study of the Structure, Dynamics, and Function of Nucleic Acids 2.0 Joo-Hwa Lee 01 Dec 2022-International Journal of Molecular Sciences	The functions of nucleic acids mentioned in the paper include replication, transcription, translation, repair, and recombination.
Open access•Journal Article•DOI Biophysical Study of the Structure, Dynamics, and Function of Nucleic Acids Cintia Baena Elchin, Stephanie Sadownik - Show less +1 more 23 May 2022-International Journal of Molecular Sciences	The functions of nucleic acids include replication, transcription, translation, repair, and recombination.

My columns

Related Questions

What is the function of lipids?4 answersLipids serve various crucial functions in biological systems. They act as structural components of cell membranes, store energy, participate in signaling pathways, and play roles in the nervous system's activity and function. Additionally, lipids contribute to surface chemistry by providing a wide range of products and properties, such as film formation, surfactant production, and serving as natural, renewable aromatics. Furthermore, lipids have evolved to dynamically interact with proteins in membranes, acting as molecular chaperones, topological determinants, and organizers of complex biological machines, influencing cellular processes and responses to the external environment. Overall, the diverse functions of lipids highlight their significance in cellular structure, signaling, metabolism, and overall physiological health.

What is RNA?5 answersRNA is a biological macromolecule that plays a crucial role in various biological processes in organisms. It is involved in gene handling, encoding, erasing, regulatory functions, and genotypic/phenotypic expression of genes. Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a variation of RNA that is present in the cytoplasm and is responsible for protein synthesis. mRNA technology has gained significant attention in scientific and medical fields due to its unique characteristics and potential applications in disease control and chronic illness. RNA synthesis occurs through the process of transcription, mediated by enzymes called RNA polymerases. Different types of RNA, such as ribosomal RNA (rRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA), have been identified, each with specific functions. RNA molecules also play a role in gene expression regulation and can be used as diagnostic markers for human diseases.

Function of RNA?5 answersRNA has diverse functions in various biological processes. It serves as an intermediary for genetic information to synthesize proteins from DNA. RNA is also involved in gene coding and decoding, regulation of gene expression, and as a major component of cellular machinery. Additionally, RNA plays a role in genome defense, such as the guide RNA involved in the bacterial infection defense system called CRISPR-Cas. RNA can form phase-separated structures called stress granules, which condense translationally stalled mRNAs and other components to promote cell survival. Furthermore, RNA interacts with other macromolecules, including RNA, DNA, proteins, lipids, and metabolites, to form intricate molecular networks and participate in various molecular functions and processes. Alterations in RNA interactions are mechanistically linked to disease etiology and phenotypical variations.

What is dna?4 answersDNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that carries genetic instructions for the development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms. It is composed of four bases: adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T). These bases form specific pairs with each other on the famous double helix structure of DNA, with A pairing with T and G pairing with C. DNA is stored as a code made up of these bases and is packaged in chromosomes within the nucleus of cells. It contains the genetic information necessary for cell replication and functioning, which is transcribed into RNA and translated into proteins. While most DNA is located in the cell nucleus, a small amount can also be found in the mitochondria, where it is called mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA. Mitochondrial DNA plays a crucial role in normal mitochondrial function.

What is the function of prokaryotes?5 answersProkaryotes, which include bacteria and archaea, perform essential functions despite their simple cellular structure. They have diverged extensively in molecular and functional terms and can regenerate ATP and scavenge nutrients from the environment. Prokaryotes also have the ability to alter their biochemical composition in response to environmental change and stress, using mechanisms of sensing and genetic regulation. They play a crucial role in the rhizosphere microbiome, where they contribute to nutrient mineralization, disease protection, and plant growth. Prokaryotes are of enormous importance in the creation, maintenance, and functioning of the soil, as they have the greatest taxonomic and functional diversity, contain significant amounts of organic carbon and nitrogen, and possess efficient dispersal and survival mechanisms. Overall, the function of prokaryotes includes nutrient cycling, pathogen suppression, and supporting plant growth and health.

What is the role of DNA?5 answersThe role of DNA is to store and transmit genetic information in cells. DNA is organized into genes, which are the basic units of inheritance, and genes are organized into genomes. DNA also has non-genetic roles and applications in various fields such as diagnostics and therapeutics. In addition to its role as a genetic material, DNA can be programmed to construct materials with desired properties. DNA analysis has been used in fields such as human evolution, population migrations, and paleodiseases. DNA can also be used for encoding and storing digital data, as well as tagging and tracing objects and materials. Overall, DNA plays a crucial role in the function of cells, the development of organisms, and the evolution of species.

See what other people are reading

How do social norms and attitudes towards technology impact the adoption rates of new technologies in residential areas?

Social norms and attitudes play a significant role in influencing the adoption rates of new technologies in residential areas. Research indicates that social norms, prices, and psychological factors all affect adoption decisions, with some households welcoming new technologies while others face social pressure and inconvenience, resulting in negative welfare. Additionally, socio-cultural attitudes and practices heavily influence the acceptance of domestic solar energy interventions among low-income urban dwellers, highlighting the importance of considering underlying socio-cultural causes in adoption processes. Furthermore, individual attitudes towards technology are shaped by cognitive dissonance, conformity with peers, and external authority, impacting adoption decisions and the spread of innovations in society. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for designing effective policies to promote the adoption of new technologies in residential areas.What is open source collaboration in software development?

Open source collaboration in software development refers to the cooperative efforts of developers working on interdependent modules to create a cohesive whole within an open source software ecosystem. This collaboration involves sharing tasks, discussing, and completing them, as seen in orgsOSS projects. Developers collaborate on various project files, with test files showing the highest degree of collaboration, possibly due to the critical nature of functionality tests. In open source software ecosystems, developers from different projects collaborate to fix cross-project bugs, with distinct responsibilities allocated between upstream and downstream members, such as problem-finders and decision-makers. The decentralized nature of open source software development allows for large-scale collaborative work, enabling the study of evolving dependencies, developer networks, and success dynamics over time within the ecosystem.Why and how the renewable energy strategies develop in many countries in recent years?

Renewable energy strategies have developed in many countries due to the need for sustainable solutions to energy crises and environmental issues. Policies play a crucial role in encouraging the transition to renewable energy sources, especially with the increasing demand and limitations of conventional energy sources. Factors influencing renewable energy development include industrial infrastructure investment, R&D, financial development, and reducing fossil-based energy consumption. To make renewable energy competitive, countries are studying and implementing massive energy incentive policies, such as tariff incentives, tailored to their potential, technological readiness, and economic conditions. The distribution of energy sources in the past, GDP per capita, energy supply concentration, and costs of fossil fuel consumption relative to GDP also significantly impact the development of renewable energy strategies in countries.How does the integration of generative artificial intelligence impact the effectiveness of adaptive learning systems in professional training?

The integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) significantly impacts the effectiveness of adaptive learning systems in professional training. Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, has been shown to enhance productivity and output quality in midlevel professional writing tasks, reducing inequality among workers. Additionally, adaptive learning systems, which dynamically adjust to individual learners' needs, have been found to increase engagement, motivation, and self-directed learning among students, while reducing teachers' workloads through timely feedback delivery. The combination of generative AI and adaptive learning technologies can lead to more efficient and engaging professional training experiences, benefiting both learners and educators by leveraging AI advancements to optimize learning outcomes and streamline educational processes.How does impact of social media on mental health?

The impact of social media on mental health is multifaceted. Social media can enhance connection, increase self-esteem, and improve a sense of belonging. However, research consistently shows a correlation between social media use and heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Factors contributing to this negative impact include the comparison trap, cyberbullying, and the constant stream of information. Excessive social media use may lead to negative outcomes like anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Strategies to promote digital well-being and mitigate these effects include fostering healthy online behaviors and positive engagement. Understanding the risks and benefits of social media use, along with promoting mindful consumption, is crucial for maintaining positive mental health outcomes in the digital age.What cell lines are mostly described in literature in OECT applications?

In the realm of Organic Electrochemical Transistor (OECT) applications, particularly in cell impedance sensing, the literature predominantly describes the use of epithelial cells. Specifically, the tightly packed colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line caco-2 and a novel leaky nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line NPC43 have been highlighted for their sensitivity in cell-based measurement when interfaced with OECTs. These cell lines are chosen due to their distinct barrier integrity properties, which are crucial for assessing physiological functions in multicellular organisms through OECT technology. While the focus on caco-2 and NPC43 cell lines in OECT applications is evident, it's important to note that the broader literature on cell lines in biomedical research encompasses a wide array of cell types. For instance, HEK293, HEK293T, and HeLa cell lines are among the most frequently used in biomedical research, dominating the landscape of in vitro cell culture practices. However, these commonly used cell lines are not specifically mentioned in the context of OECT applications, suggesting a more targeted selection of cell lines based on the specific requirements of OECT technology, such as the need to measure changes in impedance related to barrier integrity. Moreover, the development of cell culture ontologies and databases, as discussed in other contexts, supports the standardized description and annotation of cell lines, including those used in OECT applications. This standardization aids in the comprehensive understanding and evaluation of cell lines across various research domains, including their use in OECTs. In summary, while the broader biomedical research field utilizes a diverse range of cell lines, OECT applications specifically described in the literature focus on epithelial cells like caco-2 and NPC43 due to their relevance in assessing barrier integrity, a key physiological function of interest in OECT studies.How does impact social media on mental health?

Social media's impact on mental health is multifaceted. While it can enhance connections, self-esteem, and belonging, it also correlates with heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. The exponential rise in social media users, projected to reach almost 6 billion by 2027, has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Research on Thai teenagers shows that excessive social media use can lead to negative mental health outcomes like anxiety and depression, with different effects based on how social media is used. Strategies to promote digital well-being emphasize fostering healthy online behaviors and positive engagement to mitigate the negative impacts of social media on mental health. Understanding the risks and benefits of social media use is crucial in promoting positive online experiences and psychological well-being.How can textbooks promote inclusivity in the classroom on poverty?

Textbooks can promote inclusivity in the classroom by adopting innovative strategies that challenge traditional norms and cater to the needs of marginalized students. Teachers in Maharashtra have utilized digital media to connect students directly with authors and poets, ensuring a more engaging learning experience. Similarly, open textbooks initiatives at the University of Cape Town have focused on providing locally relevant content and encouraging student participation to address social injustices in education. By incorporating diverse perspectives and involving students in the creation of educational resources, textbooks can combat exclusionary practices that marginalize individuals based on gender, class, or socioeconomic status. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive learning environment that empowers all students, including those affected by poverty, to thrive academically.What are the potential interactions of retinoschisin, Aqp4 and Kir 4.1 in XLRS?

The exploration of potential interactions between retinoschisin, Aqp4 (Aquaporin-4), and Kir 4.1 (an inwardly rectifying potassium channel) in the context of X-linked juvenile retinoschisis (XLRS) is not directly addressed in the provided contexts. However, we can infer potential interactions based on the roles and interactions of retinoschisin as detailed across the studies. Retinoschisin, encoded by the RS1 gene, is a secreted protein crucial for the structural and functional integrity of the retina, interacting directly with the retinal Na/K-ATPase at the photoreceptor inner segments. This interaction is essential for anchoring retinoschisin to plasma membranes, with the glycosylated ATP1B2 subunit identified as the direct interaction partner. The deficiency of retinoschisin leads to mislocalization of the macromolecular complex and reduced protein expression of its interaction partners, although it does not affect the potassium ion currents mediated by Kv channels. Given the role of retinoschisin in regulating ERK signaling and apoptosis in retinal cells, and its involvement in MAP kinase regulation, it's plausible that retinoschisin could indirectly influence the function or expression of other membrane proteins like Aqp4 and Kir 4.1, which are critical for water and potassium homeostasis in the retina. However, the direct interactions between retinoschisin and these specific channels (Aqp4 and Kir 4.1) are not explicitly mentioned in the provided contexts. Furthermore, the therapeutic approaches for XLRS, including gene replacement therapy, do not specifically address the modulation of Aqp4 or Kir 4.1 but focus on restoring retinoschisin function. The molecular modeling of RS1 mutations and their impact on retinoschisin structure and functionalso does not directly relate to Aqp4 or Kir 4.1 but highlights the importance of retinoschisin's integrity for retinal health. In summary, while the provided contexts extensively discuss the role and interactions of retinoschisin in XLRS, they do not offer direct evidence of interactions between retinoschisin, Aqp4, and Kir 4.1. Any potential interactions would be speculative and based on the known roles of these proteins in retinal physiology.Resistance training lower blood pressure in hypertensive older adults?

Resistance training has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure in hypertensive older adults. Isometric resistance training (IRT) has been found to reduce systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in individuals with hypertension. Additionally, a study on elderly subjects demonstrated that a single resistance exercise with a volume of six sets of 20 repetitions maximum generated an acute post-exercise antihypertensive response that lasted for 60 minutes. Moreover, isometric resistance training has consistently shown to elicit significant reductions in blood pressure, equivalent to antihypertensive medication monotherapy, with a mean reduction of 7.4/3.3 mmHg in SBP/DBP, leading to a decrease in major cardiovascular events. Dynamic resistance training has also been effective in improving blood pressure and microvascular function in treated hypertensive men.Which are the main barriers to treatment of chronic diseases?

The main barriers to the treatment of chronic diseases include factors such as lack of medication adherence, insufficient skills of seniors, lack of user-friendly technology, and complex user interfaces. Additionally, challenges arise from inadequate access to individual data security, the non-digitization of medical data, and fragmented medical digital solutions due to varying national legislations. Furthermore, the burden of chronic diseases and multimorbidity is increasing, leading to a significant portion of primary care consultations being dedicated to chronically ill patients. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, necessitating actions to enhance the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with chronic conditions. Efforts are required to overcome these barriers and improve the overall management of chronic diseases.