RNA transcript

Definition

An RNA transcript is a single-stranded RNA molecule synthesized from a DNA template during the process of transcription. It serves as the initial step in gene expression, carrying genetic information from DNA to be translated into proteins.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. RNA transcripts are produced by the enzyme RNA polymerase.
2. The process of creating an RNA transcript from DNA is known as transcription.
3. In prokaryotes, transcription occurs in the cytoplasm, while in eukaryotes, it occurs in the nucleus.
4. RNA transcripts undergo processing such as splicing, capping, and addition of a poly-A tail before becoming mature mRNA in eukaryotic cells.
5. The sequence of an RNA transcript is complementary to its DNA template strand.

Related terms

RNA Polymerase:

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

mRNA (messenger RNA): The processed form of an RNA transcript that carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

Splicing:

The process by which introns are removed and exons are joined together in a pre-mRNA transcript to form mature mRNA.