Purines

Purines are one of the two types of base found in DNA and RNA, the other being pyrimidines. They are also components of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), guanosine triphosphate (GTP), cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP, and are found in high quantities in meat and meat products, especially internal organs such as liver and kidney.

Structure

Purines are composed of a six-membered and a five-membered nitrogen-containing ring, fused together. In biochemistry, the term 'purine' is used to refer specifically to the derivatives of this group, namely adenine and guanine.

Function

Purines play crucial roles in the body's cellular energy systems, protein synthesis, and cell division. They are key components of the genetic material in DNA and RNA, and are also found in a number of other important biomolecules, such as ATP, GTP, cyclic AMP, and cyclic GMP.

Metabolism

Purines are metabolized by the body and are broken down into uric acid. High levels of uric acid in the blood can lead to medical conditions such as gout and kidney stones.

Dietary sources

Purines are found in high concentration in meat and meat products, especially internal organs such as liver and kidney. Some plants also contain high amounts of purines, including legumes, mushrooms, and certain types of vegetables.

See also

• Pyrimidines
• Nucleotide
• Nucleoside
• DNA
• RNA

Purines Resources
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