Adenine is one of the four nucleobases found in DNA and RNA, serving as a fundamental building block in the genetic code. It is a purine nucleobase, pairing with thymine in DNA or uracil in RNA.
Adenine has a bicyclic structure, consisting of a six-membered pyrimidine ring fused to a five-membered imidazole ring. Its chemical formula is C5H5N5.
In DNA, adenine pairs with thymine, forming two hydrogen bonds. In RNA, adenine pairs with uracil. This complementary base pairing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of genetic information.
Adenine is a component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule that stores and transfers energy within cells. ATP releases energy when one of its phosphate groups is removed, facilitating various cellular processes.