Question

The formation of phosphodiester bonds between two nucleotides can be considered as
A. Anabolic
B. Catabolic
C. Anabolic and catabolic
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Metabolic reactions occurring within the body are classified into anabolic and catabolic reactions. Synthesis of build-up processes are anabolic and breaking down processes are catabolic.

Complete answer: In anabolic processes, smaller molecules join to form larger complexes which require energy for the formation of new bonds to form these larger complex molecules. Organs and tissues are also built by this process as this process involves the production of growth of cells, an increase in the body size, and synthesis of complex molecules. For instance, the increase in muscle mass, bone growth, and mineralization are some examples of the anabolic process. Similarly, the formation of a phosphodiester bond is an anabolic process. The phosphodiester bond is a covalent bond. The formation of the phosphodiester bond involves the phosphate group from 5' carbon of one nucleotide to form a bond with 3' carbon of another nucleotide through an ester linkage. This bond is the result of a condensation reaction occurring between the hydroxyl group of two sugar groups and one phosphate group and the bond links a 3' carbon to a 5' carbon in DNA and RNA. A molecule of water is eliminated in this bond formation.

Thus, option A, i.e., Anabolic is the correct answer.

Additional information:
Deoxyribonucleic acid consists of two polynucleotides chains that are connected by strong electromagnetic attractions called phosphodiester bonds. Phosphodiester bonds play a vital role in the electromagnetic attraction between atoms.

Note: Formation of phosphodiester bond is a building up or synthesis process. Thus it is an anabolic process in which energy is used along with the elimination of a water molecule. The phosphodiester bond is a covalent bond.