The correct spelling of "purine base" is /ˈpjʊərɪn beɪs/. The phonetic transcription reflects the pronunciation of the word, with the stress on the first syllable and the sound of "ə" in the second syllable. A purine base is one of the two types of nitrogen-containing bases found in DNA and RNA, the other being pyrimidine. The correct spelling and pronunciation of scientific terms is important in order to prevent misunderstandings and facilitate clear communication within the scientific community.
A purine base refers to one of the two types of nitrogenous bases found in the DNA and RNA molecules, which are the building blocks of genetic material. Specifically, purine bases include adenine (A) and guanine (G). These bases are characterized by their double-ring structure, consisting of a six-membered ring fused to a five-membered ring, resulting in a fused aromatic structure. Purine bases are crucial in maintaining the genetic code and are involved in key biological processes such as DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
Adenine and guanine play essential roles in forming the base pairs in DNA and RNA. Adenine pairs with thymine (in DNA) or uracil (in RNA), while guanine pairs with cytosine. These base pairs are responsible for the stable and precise transmission of genetic information during cell division and protein synthesis.
Moreover, purine bases serve as energy carriers in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and guanosine triphosphate (GTP). ATP is often referred to as the "energy currency" of the cell, providing energy for numerous cellular processes. GTP also acts as an energy source for several cellular reactions, serving as a regulator of intracellular signaling pathways.
In summary, purine bases are a fundamental component of DNA and RNA, aiding in genetic replication, gene expression, and energy metabolism.
Xanthine b.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "purine" comes from the German term "Purin", coined by Emil Fischer in 1884, derived from the Latin word "pura" meaning "pure". Fischer isolated this compound from nuclein, which is a substance found in the nuclei of cells.
The suffix "-ine" in "purine" is often used in chemistry to indicate a substance belonging to a specific class or type. In this case, it indicates the classification of purine as a type of organic compound.
Therefore, "purine base" refers to the fact that purine is a type of base, a nitrogenous molecule that forms part of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA and RNA.