What is the difference between Nucleotide and Nucleoside? - ProProfs Discuss
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What is the difference between Nucleotide and Nucleoside?

Asked by G. dorgon, Last updated: Jul 29, 2024

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Elena Sheldon

Elena Sheldon

Being in the arts and science department amuses me every day.

Elena Sheldon
Elena Sheldon, Director of research, Diploma in Arts and Science, Berkeley, California

Answered May 19, 2020

Nucleotides are monomers that constitute the biopolymer molecules of RNA and DNA. In other words, they are the building blocks of RNA and DNA. When more nucleotides are linked together, they help store genetic information that is needed for the healthy functioning of the cell.

A nucleotide consists of a phosphate group, ribose, and nucleobase. On the other hand, a nucleotide is an organic molecule in which a nitrogenous heterocyclic base (or nucleobase) is attached to a five-carbon pentose sugar i.e., deoxyribose in DNA and ribose in RNA. The hydrolysis of nucleic acids will give nucleoside.

Also, when nucleotides are broken down, nucleosides are gotten. In short, a nucleoside consists of a ribose or deoxyribose covalently attached to a nitrogenous base without a phosphate group. In contrast, a nucleotide consists of a nucleobase, a phosphate group, and a sugar. Nucleosides can be used as anticancer agents or antiviral agents, while a malfunctioning nucleotide can cause cancer.

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