What is the difference between DNA and RNA?
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Differences Between DNA and RNA
Structural Differences Between DNA and RNA
Nucleotide Composition and Backbone Structure
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) are both nucleic acids found in all complex organisms, but they differ significantly in their structure and function. DNA consists of a double-stranded helical structure, where the two strands are held together by hydrogen bonds between complementary bases: adenine pairs with thymine, and guanine pairs with cytosine1. In contrast, RNA is typically single-stranded and contains uracil instead of thymine, pairing with adenine1.
Both DNA and RNA are composed of nucleotides, which include a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sugar in DNA is deoxyribose, which lacks one oxygen atom compared to the ribose sugar in RNA1. This difference in sugar contributes to the overall stability of DNA, making it more chemically stable than RNA6.
Helical Structure and Stability
DNA forms a stable double helix, which is crucial for its role in storing genetic information. The double-stranded nature of DNA allows it to replicate accurately, as each strand serves as a template for the formation of a new complementary strand1. RNA, on the other hand, can form various secondary structures, such as hairpins and loops, due to intramolecular base pairing. These structures are less stable than the DNA double helix, contributing to the dynamic nature of RNA4.
Functional Differences Between DNA and RNA
Genetic Information Storage and Transmission
DNA's primary function is to store genetic information. It is the genetic material that is passed from one generation to the next, ensuring the continuity of genetic information3. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA determines the genetic code, which is transcribed into RNA and then translated into proteins3.
RNA plays a more versatile role in the cell. It is involved in various processes, including protein synthesis, regulation of gene expression, and catalysis of biochemical reactions. Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized. Transfer RNA (tRNA) and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) are also crucial for the translation process3.
RNA Editing and Sequence Variability
RNA undergoes editing processes that can result in differences between the RNA and the corresponding DNA sequences. This RNA editing can lead to the production of proteins that differ from those encoded by the DNA, adding an additional layer of regulation and complexity to gene expression2 5 9. These RNA-DNA sequence differences are observed in various cell types and tissues, indicating a widespread and significant role of RNA editing in the human transcriptome9.
Mechanical Properties and Conformational Dynamics
Elasticity and Flexibility
Both DNA and RNA can form double helices, but their mechanical properties differ. DNA helices behave like elastic rods and can be stretched, bent, and twisted with relative ease. RNA helices, however, exhibit different mechanical behaviors. For instance, RNA shortens when overwound, whereas DNA lengthens under similar conditions8. Additionally, RNA's conformational transitions, such as buckling and loop formation, occur at a much slower rate compared to DNA, indicating that RNA structures are dynamically more stable4 8.
Z-Conformation and Structural Variability
Both DNA and RNA can adopt left-handed Z-conformations, although the conditions and stability of these conformations differ. Z-DNA and Z-RNA have similar structural features, but RNA's ability to form the Z-conformation is influenced by its hydration shell and chemical modifications7. These differences highlight the unique structural properties of RNA and DNA, despite their chemical similarities.
Conclusion
In summary, DNA and RNA differ in their structural components, stability, and functions within the cell. DNA's double-stranded helical structure and chemical stability make it ideal for long-term genetic information storage. In contrast, RNA's single-stranded nature and ability to form various secondary structures enable it to play multiple roles in gene expression and regulation. Additionally, RNA editing and its unique mechanical properties further distinguish it from DNA, underscoring the complexity and versatility of these essential biomolecules.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
SOME RELATIONS BETWEEN DNA AND RNA.
DNA and RNA share a similar structure and function, but their chemical properties remain largely unresolved.
Comment on “Widespread RNA and DNA Sequence Differences in the Human Transcriptome”
A deeper analysis of sequencing data is needed to distinguish true differences between RNA and DNA from potential artifacts.
Highly CitedAN ANALYSIS OF THE RELATION BETWEEN DNA AND RNA
This paper explores potential relationships between DNA and RNA sequences, focusing on their potential roles in cellular development and maintaining characteristics.
Hairpins under tension: RNA versus DNA
RNA hairpins show slower conformational dynamics, contributing to their more stable nature and potentially contributing to their different biological roles despite their chemical similarity.
Comment on “Widespread RNA and DNA Sequence Differences in the Human Transcriptome”
High-throughput sequencing technology errors, not RNA editing mechanisms, explain most of the claimed differences in human cells.
Highly CitedRibonucleotides in DNA: origins, repair and consequences.
Ribonucleotides in DNA play a crucial role in storing genetic information, influencing the development and function of organisms from bacteria to humans.
Highly CitedStructure and Formation of Z-DNA and Z-RNA
Z-DNA and Z-RNA show structural similarities and sequence preferences, but differ in their ability to adopt Z-conformation due to factors like hydration shells, chemical modifications, and junction structures.
Double-stranded RNA under force and torque: Similarities to and striking differences from double-stranded DNA
Double-stranded RNA behaves like elastic rods, but shortens when overwound and has a slower transition rate for plectonemic buckling compared to DNA, challenging current nucleic acid mechanics models.
Highly CitedWidespread RNA and DNA Sequence Differences in the Human Transcriptome
Widespread RNA-DNA sequence differences in the human transcriptome reveal an unexplored aspect of genome variation.
Highly CitedVery Few RNA and DNA Sequence Differences in the Human Transcriptome
RNA editing in humans occurs at a much lower frequency than previously proposed, with most RNA-DNA differences observed due to accurate transcription of paralogous sequences.
Highly CitedTry another search
what is an average iq by age
Does intergroup contact reduce prejudice?
Does dehydration affect cognition?
what happens if you travel faster than the speed of light
Does gender diversity improve employee productivity?
Does immigration increase unemployment? group together the pro and con cases for each arguement