Nucleotide function

1. Precursors for nucleic acid synthesis: DNA, RNA

2. ATP is the prime energy source for biologic processes, GTP is sometimes used Molecular motors, active transport of solutes across membranes

3. Nucleotides can activate biomolecules for synthetic reactions:

• UTP activating glucose, CTP activating alcohol head groups
• ATP activation in several reactions

4. Nucleotides and derivatives are important parts of many second messenger systems (Cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP )

5. ATP is a source of phosphate for kinase reactions

Seen in regulation Glycogen synthesis and degradation Glycolysis