Complementarity (molecular biology)

In genetics, a double-stranded DNA or RNA strand consists of two complementary strands of base pairs, which are non-covalently connected via two or three hydrogen bonds.

Related Topics:
Genetics - DNA - RNA - Base pair - Covalently - Hydrogen bond

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Since there is only one complementary base for any of the bases found in DNA/RNA, one can reconstruct a complementary strand for any single strand. This is essential for DNA replication.

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For example, the complementary strand of the DNA sequence

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A G T C A T G

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is

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T C A G T A C

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Compliment and complementation have several different meanings in Biology, see Complement for other uses.

Related Topics:
Biology - Complement

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