This class focuses on one of the foundational concepts in Molecular Biology: the Structure of DNA. It is essential for all students in life science courses as it forms the basis for understanding genetics, molecular function, and cellular processes.

The class provides an in-depth exploration of the following key topics:

1.Nucleotides:The building blocks of DNA, consisting of a phosphate group, a five-carbon sugar (deoxyribose), and a nitrogenous base (adenine, guanine, cytosine, or thymine). The structure and function of nucleotides in forming nucleic acids will be discussed.

2. Chemical Bonds in Nucleic Acids: Understanding the chemical bonds, such as the phosphodiester bonds linking nucleotides in a single strand and the hydrogen bonds that stabilize the double helix. The role of these bonds in DNA stability and replication will be emphasized.

3. Structure of DNA: The classic double helix model proposed by Watson and Crick. The class will cover the antiparallel orientation of the two strands, base pairing (A-T and G-C), and the major and minor grooves which are crucial for protein-DNA interactions.

4. Physical and Chemical Properties of DNA:The physical properties of DNA, including its length, density, and the ability to undergo denaturation and renaturation. The chemical properties involve the reactivity of the bases, sugar-phosphate backbone, and the role of DNA in the storage and transmission of genetic information.

5. Conformational Variants of DNA: The various forms of DNA such as A-DNA, B-DNA, and Z-DNA. Each variant's structural differences, stability, and biological significance will be discussed.

This class will provide a comprehensive understanding of DNA's molecular structure, which is crucial for studying more complex biological mechanisms such as replication, transcription, and DNA repair.