DNA versus RNA
There are two types of nucleic acids present in cells – DNA and RNA
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DNA is a more stable molecule that functions as the master template for all genetic instructions
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RNA is a more versatile molecule and functions to transfer the genetic information for coding
DNA and RNA are polymers of nucleotides, however key differences exist in their composition and structure
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DNA
RNA
Sugar
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Deoxyribose
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Ribose
Bases
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Uses thymine
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Uses uracil
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Strands
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Double stranded
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Single stranded
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RNA uses a pentose sugar called ribose to form nucleotides, while DNA uses a modified form that has one less oxygen at the 2’-position (deoxyribose)
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Ribose is also found in certain vitamins and coenzymes (ATP is essentially a modified nucleotide)
Ribose vs Deoxyribose
Ribose
Deoxyribose