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HomeHomework HelpbiologyRNA Processing Overview

RNA Processing Overview

RNA processing refers to the modifications that precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) undergoes before it becomes mature mRNA, including splicing, which removes introns and joins exons; the addition of a 5' cap, which protects the mRNA and aids in ribosome binding; and the addition of a poly-A tail at the 3' end, which enhances stability and regulates translation.

intermediate
2 hours
Biology
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Overview

RNA processing is a vital step in the journey from DNA to functional proteins. It involves several key modifications to the initial RNA transcript, including splicing, the addition of a 5' cap, and a poly-A tail. These processes ensure that the mRNA is stable, protected from degradation, and ready f...

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Key Terms

RNA
Ribonucleic acid, a molecule essential for coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Example: mRNA is a type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA.

Splicing
The process of removing introns and joining exons in a pre-mRNA transcript.

Example: Splicing allows for the production of different protein variants from a single gene.

Introns
Non-coding sequences in a gene that are removed during RNA processing.

Example: Introns are spliced out to create a mature mRNA.

Exons
Coding sequences in a gene that remain in the mRNA after splicing.

Example: Exons are expressed in the final protein product.

5' Cap
A modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of mRNA.

Example: The 5' cap helps protect mRNA from degradation.

Poly-A Tail
A stretch of adenine nucleotides added to the 3' end of mRNA.

Example: The poly-A tail increases the stability of mRNA.

Related Topics

Transcription
The process of copying DNA into RNA, which is the first step in gene expression.
intermediate
Translation
The process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA at the ribosome.
intermediate
Gene Regulation
The mechanisms that control the expression of genes in cells.
advanced

Key Concepts

Splicing5' CapPoly-A TailRNA Maturation