Messenger RNA

Definition

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized. It acts as a template for protein synthesis during translation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. mRNA is synthesized in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells during transcription.
2. The sequence of mRNA is complementary to the DNA template strand.
3. mRNA contains codons, each consisting of three nucleotides, that specify amino acids in a protein.
4. In eukaryotes, mRNA undergoes processing steps like capping, polyadenylation, and splicing before it exits the nucleus.
5. The stability and lifespan of mRNA can be regulated by various factors, affecting protein production levels.

Review Questions

• What role does mRNA play in protein synthesis?
• How does mRNA differ between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
• What are some post-transcriptional modifications that eukaryotic mRNA undergoes?

Related terms

Transcription: The process by which a DNA sequence is copied into mRNA.

Translation: The process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using the sequence encoded in mRNA.

Ribosome: A molecular machine that reads mRNA sequences to assemble amino acids into proteins.