DNA, RNA and Protein Synthesis

Flashcards covering the central dogma, transcription, translation, and the genetic code.

Central Dogma

DNA codes for RNA, which guides the synthesis of proteins: DNA -> RNA -> protein

RNA (Ribonucleic acid)

Nucleic acid that has ribose sugar, Uracil instead of Thymine, and is single-stranded.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)

Double-stranded nucleic acid that has deoxyribose sugar and Thymine.

Complementary Base Pairing (RNA)

A-U, C-G

Complementary Base Pairing (DNA)

A-T, C-G

mRNA (messenger RNA)

Long strands of RNA nucleotides that are complementary to DNA; direct synthesis of specific proteins.

rRNA (ribosomal RNA)

RNA that associates with proteins to form ribosomes.

tRNA (transfer RNA)

Smaller segments of RNA nucleotides that transport amino acids to ribosomes.

Protein Synthesis

Forming proteins based on information in DNA and carried out by RNA; also known as gene expression.

Transcription

DNA is rewritten to mRNA.

Translation

RNA directs the assembly of proteins.

RNA Polymerase

Enzyme that makes a copy of a gene (in RNA form) during transcription.

Genetic Code

Converts mRNA to amino acids.

Codon

Every three nucleotides on a mRNA strand.

Start Codon

AUG - initiation signal for translation (Methionine).

Stop Codons

UAA, UAG, UGA - stop translation and polypeptide is released.

Anticodon

3 nucleotides of tRNA that is complementary to the codon (mRNA).