RNA Structure, Types [mRNA, tRNA, rRNA], and Functions

RNA-Structure-featured

RNA is a linear, unbranched and single-stranded polymer of ribonucleotides joined by phosphodiester bonds. Consist of four bases– adenine (A), uracil (U), cytosine (C), or guanine (G). RNA is of three types. mRNA is manufactured in the nucleus as heterogenous RNA (hnRNA), which is processed into functional mRNA.

In eukaryotes, mRNAs are “capped” by a 7- methyl-guanosine triphosphate. Transfer RNA molecules differ in length from 74 to 95 nucleotides. The RNA of the ribosomes is called the rRNA. Having two subunits, each subunit is made up of several strands of rRNA and many protein molecules.

Nucleic acids – Definition, Structure and Applications

Nucleic-acids

Nucleic acids are vital biopolymers present in all life forms. Chemically, they are polymers of nucleotides, linked by a phosphodiester bond. These are DNA and RNA. DNA is present in nuclei and small amounts in mitochondria and chlorophyll. 90% of the RNA is present in the cell cytoplasm and 10% in the nucleolus.

Two types of nitrogenous bases specifically purines and pyrimidines exist in RNA and DNA. DNA and RNA are distinguished on the basis of the pentose sugar present. DNA consists of D-2-deoxyribose and RNA include D-ribose. Chemically, manufactured analogues of purines and pyrimidines, their nucleosides and their nucleotides have restorative applications in medicine.

The nucleoside cytarabine is used in the chemotherapy of cancer and viral infections.