Adenine Nucleotides
Adenine nucleotides are essential building blocks of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA. They consist of three main components: a nitrogenous base called adenine, a sugar molecule (ribose in RNA and deoxyribose in DNA), and one to three phosphate groups. These nucleotides play a crucial role in storing and transferring genetic information.
In addition to their role in nucleic acids, adenine nucleotides are vital for cellular energy transfer. The most well-known adenine nucleotide is adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the primary energy currency of cells. ATP provides the energy needed for various biological processes, including muscle contraction and biochemical reactions.