Definition

1. Noun:
   • A colorless crystalline organic base containing nitrogen; the parent compound of various biologically important substances: A fundamental chemical structure composed of carbon and nitrogen atoms, forming a double-ring system. This structure is the core component of key molecules in living organisms.
   • Any of several bases that are derivatives of purine: Refers to specific compounds that are chemically based on the purine structure. These derivatives are crucial building blocks in genetics and cellular energy.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Adenine and guanine are the two purine bases found in DNA and RNA.
  • The scientist studied the purine structure to understand its role in metabolism.
  • Some foods are high in purines, which can be broken down into uric acid in the body.

Advanced Usage

• In biochemistry, the term purine is often used in contrast to "pyrimidine," the other major class of nitrogenous bases found in nucleic acids.
• In medical contexts, purine metabolism is discussed, as disorders in this process can lead to conditions like gout.

Variants and Related Words

• Purinic (adj): Relating to or derived from purine.
  • The researcher analyzed the purinic content of the sample.
• Common purine derivatives include adenine, guanine, hypoxanthine, and xanthine.

Synonyms

• Nitrogenous base (in the specific context of biochemistry): A broader category that includes purines and pyrimidines.

Notes on Meaning

• The first definition refers to the specific, singular chemical compound (C₅H₄N₄).
• The second, more common definition refers to the entire class of compounds that share this fundamental structure. In most biological contexts, purine is used in this plural sense (e.g., "Foods rich in purines").

Noun

1. a colorless crystalline organic base containing nitrogen; the parent compound of various biologically important substances
2. any of several bases that are derivatives of purine