Nucleic acid other biological data made available through the NCBI web site. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a nucleic acid containing the genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all known living organisms. The DNA segments carrying this genetic information are called genes. Likewise, other DNA sequences have structural purposes, or are involved in regulating the use of this genetic information. Along with RNA and proteins, DNA is one of the three major macromolecules that are essential for all known forms of life. DNA consists of two long polymers of simple units called nucleotides, with backbones made of sugars and phosphate
Homogentisic acid Homogentisic acid Homogentisic acid (2,5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid) is a phenolic acid usually found in "Arbutus unedo" (strawberry-tree) honey. It is also present in the bacterial plant pathogen "Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli" as well as in the yeast "Yarrowia lipolytica" where it is associated with the production of brown pigments. It is oxidatively dimerised to form hipposudoric acid, one of the main constituents of the 'blood sweat' of hippopotamuses. It is less commonly known as melanic acid, the name chosen by William Prout. Accumulation of excess homogentisic acid and its oxide, named alkapton, is a result of the failure of the enzyme