Protein Synthesis and RNA Functions

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to protein synthesis and the functions of different types of RNA.

Protein synthesis

The process of making new proteins.

DNA

The molecule that contains genetic information found in the nucleus of cells.

mRNA (messenger RNA)

RNA that copies instructions from DNA and leaves the nucleus for protein synthesis.

Cytoplasm

The part of the cell where mRNA is translated into proteins at ribosomes.

Ribosome

The organelle where protein synthesis occurs.

Amino acids

The building blocks of proteins.

Polypeptide chain

Another term for a protein, consisting of a series of amino acids.

Codon

A group of 3 letters found on an mRNA strand that corresponds to an amino acid.

Anticodon

A group of 3 letters found on tRNA that pairs with a codon on mRNA.

Transcription

The process of copying information from DNA to make mRNA.

Translation

The process of organizing amino acids into proteins.

RNA polymerase

The enzyme that binds to DNA to produce mRNA.

Point mutation

A mutation that affects only one amino acid.

Frameshift mutation

A mutation that affects all amino acids after the mutation occurs.

Substitution

Another name for a point mutation.

Insertion and deletion

The two types of frameshift mutations.

Ribose

The sugar used in RNA.