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Cytosine

Definition(s)

Cytosine (C) is one of four chemical bases in DNA, the other three being adenine (A), guanine (G), and thymine (T). Within the DNA molecule, cytosine bases located on one strand form chemical bonds with guanine bases on the opposite strand. The sequence of four DNA bases encodes the cell's genetic instructions.

Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic TermsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the National Human Genome Research Institute

A pyrimidine base (C4H5N3O) that codes genetic information in the polynucleotide chain of DNA or RNA.

Definition from: Merriam-Webster's Medical DictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. by Merriam-Webster Inc.

Related discussion in the Handbook

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 13, 2013