dNMP

dNMP stands for deoxynucleotide monophosphate, a nucleotide consisting of a deoxyribose sugar, a nitrogenous base, and a single phosphate group. The canonical dNMPs are dAMP, dCMP, dGMP, dTMP, and dUMP. In cells, dNMPs are part of the nucleotide pool and serve as intermediates in the metabolism and salvage of deoxynucleotides.

Biologically, dNMPs are typically phosphorylated to the diphosphate and triphosphate forms (dNDP and dNTP), which are the substrates used by DNA polymerases during replication and repair. While dNMPs themselves are not the direct substrates for DNA synthesis, they drive the generation of the dNTP pool through sequential phosphorylation. They also participate in salvage pathways that recycle bases and nucleosides.

In research and laboratory contexts, dNMPs are used as standards, substrates, or intermediates in nucleotide metabolism studies. They can be prepared chemically or generated enzymatically from deoxynucleosides or higher-phosphorylated forms. They are typically water-soluble and carry a negative charge due to the phosphate group at physiological pH.

Chemical and practical notes: dNMPs are distinct from ribonucleotide monophosphates (NMPs) and from deoxynucleotide triphosphates (dNTPs), the latter being the direct substrates for DNA synthesis. Storage conditions usually involve cool, dry storage or frozen aqueous solutions to minimize hydrolysis and degradation.

Overall, dNMPs are fundamental intermediates in deoxyribonucleotide metabolism, bridging deoxynucleosides and the active dNTP pool required for DNA synthesis.