BASE PAIRING Meaning and
Definition
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Base pairing refers to a specific type of chemical bonding between nucleotide bases in DNA or RNA molecules. It involves the pairing of complementary bases, which are the building blocks of these nucleic acids. In DNA, the base pairs consist of adenine (A) with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) with guanine (G). Meanwhile, in RNA, adenine pairs with uracil (U) instead of thymine. This pairing is mediated by hydrogen bonding between the nucleotide bases.
The specific rules governing base pairing are referred to as Chargaff's rules, which state that the amount of adenine in a DNA molecule is equal to the amount of thymine, and the amount of cytosine is equal to the amount of guanine. These rules reflect the complementary nature of base pairing and are vital for maintaining the double-stranded structure of DNA.
Base pairing plays a crucial role in DNA replication and transcription. During replication, the DNA double helix unwinds, and each strand acts as a template for the synthesis of a complementary strand. The base pairing rules ensure accurate replication, as the correct bases are paired according to their complementary nature.
In transcription, DNA is used as a template to produce an RNA molecule. In this process, RNA polymerase ensures that the complementary base pairs are formed between the RNA nucleotides and the DNA template. Base pairing is essential for correct RNA synthesis, as it allows the precise transfer of genetic information from DNA to RNA. Overall, base pairing is a fundamental aspect of nucleic acid structure, replication, and transcription, ensuring genetic stability and the faithful transfer of genetic information.
Common Misspellings for BASE PAIRING
- vase pairing
- nase pairing
- hase pairing
- gase pairing
- bzse pairing
- bsse pairing
- bwse pairing
- bqse pairing
- baae pairing
- baze pairing
- baxe pairing
- bade pairing
- baee pairing
- bawe pairing
- basw pairing
- bass pairing
- basd pairing
- basr pairing
- bas4 pairing
- bas3 pairing
Etymology of BASE PAIRING
The term "base pairing" refers to the specific hydrogen bonding that occurs between complementary nucleotide bases in DNA or RNA molecules. The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Base: The word "base" originates from the Middle English word "bas" or "base", which in turn can be traced back to the Old French word "bas" meaning "low, lowly". This word ultimately derives from the Latin word "basis", meaning "foundation" or "pedestal".
2. Pairing: The word "pairing" comes from the noun "pair", which stems from the Old French word "paire" (meaning "pair, couple") and the Late Latin word "paria" (meaning "equals"). In essence, "pairing" refers to the act of combining or bringing two objects together to form a couple or pair.
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