In RNA, the nucleotide base A (adenine) always pairs with U (uracil).
RNA, or ribonucleic acid, is a molecule involved in protein synthesis. It is composed of nucleotides, which are made up of a sugar molecule, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The four nitrogenous bases found in RNA are adenine (A), uracil (U), guanine (G), and cytosine (C).
In RNA, the base pairing rules differ slightly from those in DNA. While in DNA, A pairs with T (thymine), in RNA, A always pairs with U. This means that whenever there is an A in an RNA molecule, it will bind specifically to a U. For example, if there is an A in the RNA sequence, the complementary nucleotide in the pairing strand will always be a U.
This base pairing is essential for the proper functioning of RNA, as it allows for the accurate transfer of genetic information during protein synthesis. The specific pairing between A and U ensures that the correct sequence of nucleotides is maintained, which is crucial for the formation of the appropriate proteins in the cell.
So, in summary, in RNA, A always pairs with U.
