Base-pair is a term used in genetics to describe the bonding between two nucleotide bases in a DNA molecule. It is an essential concept in the field of molecular biology and genetics, as it forms the basis of the genetic code that determines the traits of living organisms.
Definitions
A base-pair refers to the complementary pairing of two nucleotide bases in a DNA molecule. The four nucleotide bases in DNA are adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). Adenine always pairs with thymine, and guanine always pairs with cytosine. The base-pairing between these nucleotide bases is what holds the two strands of DNA together.
Origin
The term base-pair was first coined by James Watson and Francis Crick, the scientists who discovered the structure of DNA in 1953. It was used to describe the specific pairing of the four nucleotide bases in DNA, which was a crucial aspect of their model of the DNA molecule.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of base-pair is consistent across different dictionaries and scientific sources. It is defined as the pairing of two complementary nucleotide bases in a DNA molecule, with adenine always pairing with thymine and guanine always pairing with cytosine.
Associations
Base-pairing is a fundamental concept in genetics and molecular biology, as it is what allows DNA to replicate and transmit genetic information from one generation to the next. It is also important in the study of genetic mutations and genetic disorders, as changes in the base-pairing of nucleotide bases can lead to genetic abnormalities.
Synonyms
There are no commonly used synonyms for base-pair, as the term is specific to the pairing of nucleotide bases in DNA.
Antonyms
There are no commonly used antonyms for base-pair, as the concept of base-pairing is essential to the structure and function of DNA.
The same root words
The term base-pair is derived from the two root words “base” and “pair.” Base refers to the nucleotide bases in DNA, while pair refers to the complementary pairing of these bases.
Example Sentences
- The base-pairing of nucleotide bases in DNA is what allows for the precise replication of genetic information.
- Mutations in the base-pairing of nucleotide bases can lead to genetic disorders and diseases.
- The specific base-pairing of nucleotide bases in DNA is what gives each living organism its unique genetic code.