A primitive eukaryote was discovered that displayed a unique nucleic acid as its genetic material. Analysis provided the following information: Base-composition analysis reveals four bases in the following proportions: Adenine = 8% Guanine = 37% Xanthine = 37% Hypoxanthine = 18%

Key Concepts

Nucleic Acids

Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are biopolymers essential for all known forms of life. They are composed of nucleotide monomers, which include a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. The sequence of these bases encodes genetic information, guiding the synthesis of proteins and regulating cellular functions.

Base Composition

Base composition refers to the relative amounts of the four nitrogenous bases in a nucleic acid molecule. In the context of DNA and RNA, these bases are adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T) or uracil (U). Analyzing base composition can provide insights into the structure and function of the nucleic acid, as well as its evolutionary relationships.

Unique Bases in Genetic Material

The presence of unique bases, such as xanthine and hypoxanthine, indicates that the genetic material of the primitive eukaryote may differ from the standard DNA and RNA found in most organisms. These bases can affect the stability and functionality of the nucleic acids, suggesting adaptations to specific environmental conditions or evolutionary pathways.