Adenine is a nitrogen-containing compound that is one of the four nucleotide bases found in DNA and RNA. It is an essential building block for the genetic code and plays a crucial role in the functioning of cells. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of adenine.
Definitions
Adenine is defined as a purine base that pairs with thymine in DNA and with uracil in RNA. It is a nitrogen-containing compound that is found in the DNA of all living organisms. Adenine is also a component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule that provides energy to cells.
Origin
Adenine was first discovered in 1885 by the German biochemist Albrecht Kossel. He isolated it from the pancreas of a calf and named it adenine, after the Greek word aden, which means gland. Adenine was later found to be a component of DNA and RNA, and its importance in genetic processes was recognized.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, adenine is defined as “a purine base C5H5N5 that is a constituent of nucleic acids and is paired with thymine in DNA or with uracil in RNA.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines adenine as “a purine base that is a component of DNA and RNA, and of certain coenzymes.”
Associations
Adenine is associated with the other three nucleotide bases found in DNA and RNA: thymine, guanine, and cytosine. It is also associated with ATP, the molecule that provides energy to cells.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of adenine include 6-aminopurine, 1H-purin-6-amine, and 9H-purin-6-amine.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms of adenine, as it is a specific compound with unique properties.
The same root words
Adenine does not have any common root words, as it is a unique compound with a specific chemical structure.
Example Sentences
- Adenine is a purine base that is a component of DNA and RNA.
- ATP contains adenine and provides energy to cells.
- Adenine pairs with thymine in DNA and with uracil in RNA.
- Albrecht Kossel discovered adenine in 1885 and named it after the Greek word for gland.
- Adenine is an essential building block for the genetic code and plays a crucial role in the functioning of cells.