Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | DNA | RNA |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | Deoxyribose | Ribose |
| Base pairs | Adenine (A) - Thymine (T), Guanine (G) - Cytosine (C) | Adenine (A) - Uracil (U), Guanine (G) - Cytosine (C) |
| Structure | Double helix | Usually single-stranded |
| Function | Stores genetic information | Involved in protein synthesis, gene regulation, and other cellular processes |
While DNA is the primary repository of genetic information, RNA plays a crucial role in translating that information into functional proteins. There are several types of RNA, including:
* Messenger RNA (mRNA): Carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.
* Transfer RNA (tRNA): Brings amino acids to the ribosome for protein assembly.
* Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): Forms the structural and catalytic core of ribosomes.
RNA is also involved in a variety of other cellular processes, including gene regulation, viral replication, and immune system function.
