Pyrimidine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pyrimidine
[pɪrɪˌmɪdiːn ]
Definition
biochemistry, organic chemistry
Pyrimidine is a colorless, crystalline organic compound that serves as a fundamental building block of nucleic acids. It consists of a six-membered ring with two nitrogen atoms at positions 1 and 3. Pyrimidine derivatives are essential in the synthesis of nucleotides and nucleic acids, such as RNA and DNA.
Synonyms
pyrimidine base, pyrimidine compound.
Examples of usage
- Pyrimidine rings are found in DNA and RNA.
- Chemists synthesized various pyrimidine analogs for studies.
- Pyrimidine derivatives play important roles in biological systems.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biochemistry
- Pyrimidine bases are essential for forming the nucleotides that make up genetic material, including DNA and RNA.
- Two of the primary pyrimidine bases are cytosine and thymine, while uracil is found in RNA.
- They participate in important biochemical processes, including the synthesis of nucleic acids and metabolism of cellular energy.
Health and Medicine
- Certain medications, such as those for cancer treatment, target pyrimidine metabolism to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Pyrimidine derivatives have been studied for their antiviral properties, indicating their significance in drug research.
Literature and Culture
- In literature, the structure of life and hereditary is often subtly referenced through the study of molecular biology.
- The discovery of pyrimidines has influenced poets and writers exploring themes of existence, identity, and the essence of life.
Science
- Pyrimidines serve as a fundamental element in the field of genetics, impacting our understanding of heredity and evolution.
- They are part of a larger family of compounds known as heterocycles, which contain different types of atoms in their ring structures.
Origin of 'pyrimidine'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'pyrimidine' derives from 'pyridine', a similar chemical, with 'imidine' indicating its specific structure.
- It was first identified in coal tar in 1875, showcasing its origins from natural sources.
The term 'pyrimidine' originates from the combination of parts of the words 'pyridine' and 'imidine', reflecting its structural features. Pyrimidine was first characterized in the early 20th century, with its presence noted in various biological systems. The compound was identified as a significant component of nucleic acids, contributing to the understanding of genetic material. As research progressed, pyrimidine derivatives were increasingly recognized for their vital roles in biochemistry, notably in the formation of RNA and DNA. The widespread importance of pyrimidine in cellular processes has made it a critical focus in medicinal and biochemical research, leading to numerous studies to explore its functions and applications.