DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis Overview

Gene

Unique nucleotide sequence coding for proteins or RNA.

Exons

Coding segments of DNA expressed in proteins.

Introns

Non-coding segments of DNA removed during processing.

Transcription

DNA sequence rewritten into complementary RNA sequence.

Translation

mRNA translated into amino acid sequence.

mRNA

Messenger RNA carrying genetic information to ribosomes.

Ribosomes

Complexes linking amino acids during translation.

Pre-mRNA

Initial RNA transcript before processing in eukaryotes.

RNA Splicing

Removal of introns and joining of exons.

Spliceosome

Complex that facilitates RNA splicing.

Alternative RNA Splicing

Single gene produces multiple polypeptides.

Phenotype

Physical and behavioral traits expressed by genotype.

Genotype

Genetic makeup determining inherited traits.

RNA Processing

Modification of pre-mRNA to mature mRNA.

Nucleus

Cell organelle where transcription occurs in eukaryotes.

Cytoplasm

Location where translation occurs in cells.

Deoxyribose

Sugar in DNA, more stable than ribose.

Ribose

Sugar in RNA, less stable than deoxyribose.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins linked by peptide bonds.

Polypeptide

Chain of amino acids folded into a protein.

Macromolecules

Large molecules essential for biological functions.

RNA Types

Includes mRNA, tRNA, rRNA, each with distinct roles.

Chromosomes

Structures containing DNA arranged in living organisms.