Quick Review Cards for Medical Laboratory Science

Comparison of DNA and RNA

Molecular Diagnostics

(MDx) Review 527

DNA RNA

Function

Location

Composition

Sugar

Pyrimidines

Purines

Converts genetic information from

DNA into proteins. Some has regula-

tory or structural function. Source of

genetic information in RNA viruses.

Nucleus & cytoplasm.

Repeating nucleotides linked by

phosphodiester bonds between

5’ phosphate group of 1 sugar &

3’ hydroxyl group of next.

Ribose.

C, U.

A, G.

Carries genetic information. Serves as template for synthesis of RNA.

Nucleus (except mitochondrial DNA).

Repeating nucleotides linked by phosphodiester bonds between 5’

phosphate group of 1 sugar & 3’ hydroxyl group of next.

Deoxyribose.

C, T.

A, G.

continued...