2oxo4aminopyrimidine

2oxo4aminopyrimidine, also known as cytosine, is a pyrimidine nucleobase. It is one of the four main nucleobases found in DNA and RNA, alongside adenine, guanine, and thymine (in DNA) or uracil (in RNA). In DNA, cytosine forms a base pair with guanine through three hydrogen bonds. In RNA, cytosine also pairs with guanine.

Cytosine plays a crucial role in genetic information storage and transmission. Its specific pairing with guanine is essential for maintaining the double helix structure of DNA and for accurate replication and transcription processes. Mutations involving cytosine, such as deamination or depurination, can lead to changes in the genetic code.

Beyond its fundamental role in nucleic acids, cytosine derivatives have biological significance. For instance, cytosine arabinoside (cytarabine) is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of leukemia. The study of cytosine and its interactions is central to molecular biology, genetics, and medicinal chemistry. Its discovery and characterization were significant steps in understanding the molecular basis of life.