Definition

A type of molecule that is one of the building blocks of DNA and RNA, pairing with another molecule called guanine to help store genetic information.

Example

Cytosine pairs with guanine in the structure of DNA.

Conversation

I was reading about DNA, and I came across the term cytosine.

Oh really? Isn't that one of the bases that pairs with guanine?

Yes, exactly! It’s interesting how cytosine plays a role in genetic coding.

Totally! It's amazing how these tiny molecules impact so much.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cytosine is formed from "cyto-" (from Greek "kytos", meaning cell) and "-sine" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a specific type of compound). The word refers to a compound found in the cells, specifically as one of the building blocks of DNA and RNA.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cyto-' meaning 'cell' and '-sine' indicating a chemical compound, which helps you remember that cytosine is a compound found in cells.

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