MESSENGER RNA Meaning and
Definition
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Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded molecule that serves as an intermediary between DNA and protein synthesis in living organisms. It is a type of RNA molecule synthesized during the transcription process of gene expression. The synthesis of mRNA occurs within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells.
The primary function of mRNA is to carry genetic information from the DNA within the cell's nucleus to the ribosomes, the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. In this process, genes on the DNA molecule serve as templates for the synthesis of complementary mRNA strands. The mRNA molecule is then modified and processed before it leaves the nucleus to ensure efficacy and accuracy during protein production.
The resulting mRNA molecule carries the genetic code or blueprint for the construction of a specific protein. It contains sequences of nucleotide bases that correspond to the codons, which are three-base codes in DNA and mRNA that specify the particular amino acids required for protein synthesis. The ribosomes read these codons and link properly matching amino acids together to form functional proteins.
Overall, messenger RNA plays a pivotal role in the flow of genetic information within cells, facilitating the transfer of genetic instructions encoded in the DNA to the protein synthesis machinery. The concept of mRNA has been a vital part of understanding the central dogma of molecular biology, furthering our knowledge of genetics and protein expression.
Common Misspellings for MESSENGER RNA
- Messenger sna
- Messenger R.a
- Messenger Rfa
- Messenger Rla
- Messenger Roa
- Messenger Rni
- Messenger Rne
- Messenger Rnc
- m essenger rna
- me ssenger rna
- mes senger rna
- mess enger rna
- messe nger rna
- messen ger rna
- messeng er rna
- messenge r rna
- messenger r na
- messenger rn a
Etymology of MESSENGER RNA
The term "messenger RNA" (mRNA) originates from the combination of two words:
1. Messenger: The word "messenger" refers to something or someone that carries a message from one place to another. In this context, mRNA serves as a messenger molecule that carries genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. This message is essential for protein synthesis.
2. RNA: RNA stands for "ribonucleic acid". It is a type of nucleic acid present in all living cells and plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It differs from DNA in its structure and function.
Combining these two terms, "messenger RNA" describes the specific role of this type of RNA in carrying genetic information and transferring it to the cellular machinery responsible for protein production.
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