Primary transcript

Definition

A primary transcript is the initial RNA copy synthesized from a DNA template during transcription. It undergoes processing to become a mature RNA molecule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Primary transcripts in prokaryotes often do not require extensive processing and can function directly as mRNA.
2. In eukaryotes, the primary transcript (pre-mRNA) undergoes splicing, capping, and polyadenylation before becoming mature mRNA.
3. The primary transcript includes both exons (coding regions) and introns (non-coding regions).
4. Transcription of a DNA sequence into a primary transcript is carried out by RNA polymerase.
5. The length and composition of a primary transcript are determined by the gene's specific regulatory sequences.

Related terms

mRNA:

Messenger RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

Splicing:

The process of removing introns from the pre-mRNA and joining exons together.

RNA Polymerase:

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