Which of the following statements about DNA structure is true?

Prepare for the AAB Molecular Diagnostics Test with focused study materials and practice questions. Gain insights into questions, formats, and key topics to excel in your exam and advance your career in molecular diagnostics.

The statement that DNA is composed of nucleotides linked by phosphodiester bonds is true and reflects a fundamental aspect of its molecular structure. In DNA, each nucleotide consists of a nitrogenous base, a deoxyribose sugar, and a phosphate group. The phosphodiester bonds form between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and the hydroxyl group on the sugar of another nucleotide, creating a long chain that forms the backbone of the DNA molecule. This structure is crucial because it preserves the integrity of the genetic information encoded in the sequence of nitrogenous bases.

In contrast, DNA's conventional double-helix structure is characterized by double strands twisted around each other, leading to the incorrectness of statements suggesting it is typically single-stranded, contains ribose sugar (which is a component of RNA, not DNA), or has uracil instead of thymine (thymine is a unique base found in DNA). Understanding the molecular architecture of DNA, including the significance of phosphodiester bonds, provides insight into both its stability and functionality in genetic processes.

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