RNA
Definition
RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is a molecule similar to DNA that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and other chemical activities of the cell.
Analogy
If DNA is like a cookbook, then RNA is like a chef who reads the recipes (genes) and assembles the ingredients (amino acids) to make dishes (proteins).
Related terms
mRNA (Messenger RNA): This type of RNA carries instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins.
tRNA (Transfer RNA): This type of RNA serves as physical link between mRNA and amino acids during protein synthesis.
rRNA (Ribosomal RNA): This type of RNA, along with proteins, forms the structure of ribosomes which coordinate protein synthesis.
"RNA" appears in:
Study guides (6)
Practice Questions (1)
- Retroviruses are particularly difficult to treat because they possess a special enzyme that allows an alternative flow of information: RNA --> DNA.
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