Gene Expression and Translation

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to gene expression, transcription, and translation processes.

Template strand

The strand of DNA that is used as a guide for synthesizing RNA.

Direction of transcription

DNA is read in the 3’ to 5’ direction and RNA is synthesized in the 5’ to 3’ direction.

mRNA

Messenger RNA, the RNA transcript that carries the coding information from DNA to the ribosome.

tRNA

Transfer RNA, which brings amino acids to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA, a component of ribosomes that aids in protein synthesis.

Peptide bond

A covalent bond formed between amino acids during protein synthesis.

Start codon

The first codon of mRNA that is recognized by the ribosome to initiate translation, typically AUG.

Stop codon

A codon that signals the termination of translation.

Introns

Non-coding segments of RNA that are removed during RNA processing.

Exons

Coding segments of RNA that are spliced together and exit the nucleus after RNA processing.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that specifies an amino acid.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that is complementary to a specific mRNA codon.

Initiation factors

Proteins that assist in the assembly of the translation initiation complex.

Elongation factors

Proteins that assist in the elongation of the polypeptide chain during translation.

Mutation

A change in the nucleotide sequence of a gene that can affect the function of the encoded protein.

Ribozyme

An RNA molecule that has the ability to catalyze biochemical reactions.

Genetic code

The set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material is translated into proteins.

Peptide chain

A sequence of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds, forming a protein.

RNA polymerase

The enzyme responsible for synthesizing RNA from the DNA template during transcription.

Nuclear pore

A complex that allows the transport of molecules across the nuclear envelope.

Cytosol

The fluid component inside cells in which organelles are suspended and where translation occurs.