5' UTR
Definition
The 5' Untranslated Region (5' UTR) is a segment of mRNA located upstream of the start codon. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of translation efficiency and stability of the mRNA.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- 1. The 5' UTR contains regulatory elements that can influence ribosome binding and translation initiation.
- 2. It does not code for proteins but can contain upstream open reading frames (uORFs) that regulate downstream translation.
- 3. Secondary structures within the 5' UTR, such as hairpins, can affect mRNA stability and translation efficiency.
- 4. The length and sequence composition of the 5' UTR can vary significantly between different genes and organisms.
- 5. Mutations in the 5' UTR can lead to diseases by disrupting normal gene expression regulation.
Review Questions
- 1. What is the primary function of the 5' UTR in mRNA?
- 2. How can secondary structures within the 5' UTR affect gene expression?
- 3. Why might mutations in the 5' UTR lead to diseases?
"5' UTR" appears in:
Related terms
mRNA: Messenger RNA, which carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis
Translation Initiation: The process by which ribosomes assemble on an mRNA molecule to begin protein synthesis
Upstream Open Reading Frame (uORF): A sequence within the 5' UTR that can regulate downstream gene expression
