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Noncoding DNA

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Microbiology

Definition

Noncoding DNA consists of sequences in the genome that do not code for proteins. These regions have various regulatory and structural functions in the cell.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Noncoding DNA makes up a significant portion of the human genome, comprising about 98-99% of it.
  2. Some noncoding DNA regions are involved in regulating gene expression, such as promoters and enhancers.
  3. Introns are noncoding sections within genes that are removed during RNA splicing.
  4. Telomeres, which protect chromosome ends, are composed of repetitive noncoding DNA sequences.
  5. Noncoding RNA (ncRNA) molecules, like tRNA and rRNA, play crucial roles in protein synthesis.

Review Questions

  • What percentage of the human genome is made up of noncoding DNA?
  • Name two functions of noncoding DNA related to gene regulation.
  • What role do introns play in relation to coding and noncoding DNA?

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