Base pairing

Definition

Base pairing refers to the specific hydrogen bonding between nitrogenous bases in nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, that ensures the accurate replication and transcription of genetic information. In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine (A-T) and cytosine pairs with guanine (C-G), while in RNA, adenine pairs with uracil (A-U) instead of thymine. This complementary nature of base pairing is fundamental to the structure of DNA and its ability to store and transmit genetic information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Base pairing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the genetic code during DNA replication.
2. The specificity of base pairing allows for accurate transcription of DNA into RNA, which is essential for protein synthesis.
3. Hydrogen bonds between paired bases are weak enough to allow the strands to separate during replication and transcription but strong enough to stabilize the double helix structure.
4. Errors in base pairing can lead to mutations, which may result in changes to protein function and can have significant biological consequences.
5. The discovery of base pairing was key in understanding the structure of DNA, contributing to the formulation of Watson and Crick's double helix model.

Review Questions

• How does base pairing contribute to the stability and functionality of DNA?
  • Base pairing contributes to the stability of DNA by creating a consistent structure through specific hydrogen bonds between complementary bases. This pairing allows for the formation of the double helix shape, which is essential for protecting genetic information. The functionality is enhanced as base pairing ensures accurate replication during cell division and transcription for protein synthesis, making it vital for heredity and cellular function.
• Discuss the implications of errors in base pairing during DNA replication.
  • Errors in base pairing during DNA replication can lead to mutations, which are changes in the nucleotide sequence of DNA. These mutations can disrupt normal cellular functions, potentially leading to diseases such as cancer or genetic disorders. Understanding these implications highlights the importance of fidelity in base pairing processes and how they impact genetic stability within an organism.
• Evaluate the role of base pairing in genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR.
  • Base pairing plays a crucial role in genetic engineering techniques like CRISPR by enabling precise targeting of specific sequences within the genome. In CRISPR, guide RNA sequences are designed to match target DNA through complementary base pairing, allowing for accurate editing or modification of genes. This understanding not only showcases how fundamental principles of molecular biology can be applied in innovative ways but also emphasizes the potential ethical considerations surrounding gene editing technology.

Related terms

Nucleotide: The basic building block of nucleic acids, consisting of a nitrogenous base, a sugar, and a phosphate group.

Double Helix: The shape of DNA, formed by two strands that twist around each other, with the nitrogenous bases paired in the center.

Replication:

The process by which DNA is copied to produce two identical copies before cell division.