Nucleic acid Nucleic acids are the polymer of nucleotides (polynucleotides) held by 3’ and 5’ phosphate bridge. Nucleotide Nucleotide perform variety of functions in a living cells. They are composed of pentose sugar, phosphate and a nitrogenous base. Functions of Nucleotide Monomeric units of DNA and RNA Structural component of several coenzymes e.g. FAD, NADP+ Serve as carriers of high energy intermediates in the biosynthesis of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins Nucleotides are intimately involved in the energy reactions of the cell e.g. ATP Control several metabolic reactions by their action as allosteric regulators. Cyclic AMP amd cyclic GMP are the second messenger in hormonal functions. Nucleotide structure Biosynthesis of Purines Biosynthesis of Pyrimidine Disorder of Purine Catabolism of Purine