Antisense strand

Definition

The antisense strand is the DNA strand that serves as the template during RNA transcription. It is complementary to the sense strand and the mRNA produced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The antisense strand runs in the 3' to 5' direction, opposite to the sense strand.
2. RNA polymerase binds to the antisense strand to synthesize mRNA in a 5' to 3' direction.
3. The sequence of the antisense strand is complementary to both the sense strand and the resulting mRNA.
4. During transcription, only one of the two DNA strands (the antisense strand) is used as a template for RNA synthesis.
5. Mutations in the antisense strand can affect gene expression by altering the mRNA sequence.

Review Questions

Related terms

Sense Strand: The DNA strand that has a sequence identical to the mRNA except thymine (T) is replaced by uracil (U).

mRNA:

Messenger RNA, which carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

RNA Polymerase:

An enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during transcription.