What is RNA

RNA was the first regulatory chemical that evolved at the time of origin of life.In early life forms RNA was the genetic material.The structure of RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) differs from DNA in several important ways, though it shares some similarities as well. Here’s an outline of the structure of RNA:

1. Single-Stranded:

Unlike DNA, RNA is usually single-stranded. However, it can fold into complex 3D structures by forming internal base pairs (hairpin loops).

2. Nucleotide Composition:

Like DNA, RNA is made up of nucleotides, but with some key differences:

• Phosphate Group (PO₄³⁻)
• Ribose Sugar (instead of deoxyribose in DNA, RNA has ribose, which contains an extra hydroxyl group (-OH) on the 2′ carbon)
• Nitrogenous Bases:
  • Adenine (A)
  • Uracil (U) (replaces Thymine found in DNA)
  • Cytosine (C)
  • Guanine (G)

3. Base Pairing:

RNA can form base pairs, but it typically pairs within its single strand to form secondary structures:

• Adenine (A) pairs with Uracil (U).
• Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G).

4. Types of RNA:

There are several different forms of RNA, each serving specific roles:

• mRNA (Messenger RNA): Carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.
• tRNA (Transfer RNA): Helps in decoding mRNA by carrying amino acids to the ribosome.
• rRNA (Ribosomal RNA): Structural component of ribosomes.
• snRNA (Small Nuclear RNA): Involved in splicing of pre-mRNA.
• miRNA (Micro RNA) and siRNA (Small Interfering RNA): Involved in gene regulation.

5. Secondary Structures:

RNA can form secondary structures like hairpins and loops, where complementary base pairing occurs within the single strand. This allows RNA to fold into complex shapes necessary for its various functions.

6. Ribose Sugar:

The ribose sugar in RNA has a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the 2′ carbon, which makes RNA more reactive and less stable compared to DNA.

7. Functional Versatility:

Due to its ability to fold into various shapes and interact with other molecules, RNA plays diverse roles, not only in carrying genetic information (like mRNA) but also in catalysis (ribozymes) and regulation of gene expression.

Key Differences Between RNA and DNA:

• RNA is single-stranded (while DNA is double-stranded).
• RNA contains ribose sugar (instead of deoxyribose).
• RNA uses Uracil (U) instead of Thymine (T).
• RNA molecules are typically shorter and more versatile in function than DNA.

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