Functional RNAs

Definition

Functional RNAs are RNA molecules that are not translated into proteins but play crucial roles in the cell, such as catalysis, regulation, and structural support. These molecules include a variety of types, each serving distinct functions beyond the coding sequences of messenger RNA (mRNA).

Related terms

mRNA (Messenger RNA): The type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where it serves as a template for protein synthesis.

tRNA (Transfer RNA): A type of functional RNA that helps decode a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence into a protein during translation by carrying specific amino acids to the ribosome.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA):

A component of ribosomes involved in catalyzing peptide bonds between amino acids and playing structural roles during protein synthesis