Dinukleotideja

Dinukleotideja, meaning dinucleotides in Latvian, refers to short nucleic acid molecules composed of two nucleotide units linked by a phosphodiester bond. These molecules are fundamental building blocks and can be found in various biological contexts. In DNA and RNA, dinucleotides represent the smallest repeating units within the larger polymer chain. The specific sequence of bases within a dinucleotide, such as AG, GC, or AU, plays a role in gene expression and regulation.

Beyond their role as components of nucleic acids, dinucleotides can also function as signaling molecules. Cyclic dinucleotides, for instance, are important second messengers in bacteria, mediating responses to environmental cues and regulating processes like biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance. Examples include cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) and cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP). These molecules are synthesized and degraded by specific enzymes, allowing for precise control over cellular signaling pathways. The study of dinucleotides is crucial for understanding genetic information processing and microbial physiology.