Is DNA hydrophobic or hydrophilic?

1 answer

DNA has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics. The backbone of the DNA molecule is made up of sugar and phosphate groups, which are hydrophilic (water-attracting) due to their polar nature. This allows DNA to be soluble in water and interact with the aqueous environment of the cell.

On the other hand, the bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) that make up the rungs of the DNA ladder are relatively hydrophobic. They tend to stack together in the interior of the DNA double helix, away from the water, which helps stabilize the structure of the DNA.

In summary, DNA contains both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, contributing to its unique structure and functional properties.