Lecture 12: Messenger RNA Processing

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to messenger RNA processing, including splicing, the role of introns and exons, and aspects of mRNA maturation.

Messenger RNA (mRNA)

A type of RNA that conveys genetic information from DNA to the ribosome.

Splicing

The process of removing introns from pre-mRNA and joining exons together to produce a mature mRNA.

Introns

Non-coding regions of a gene that are removed during RNA splicing.

Exons

Coding regions of a gene that are retained in the final mRNA.

Alternative Splicing

A regulated process during gene expression that results in a single gene coding for multiple proteins.

5’ Methylated Cap

A modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5’ end of mRNA that protects the mRNA from degradation and is involved in translation initiation.

3’ Polyadenylated Tail

A sequence of adenine nucleotides added to the 3’ end of mRNA that enhances stability and translation efficiency.

Spliceosome

A complex made up of snRNPs and other proteins that facilitates the splicing of pre-mRNA.

snRNP (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein)

A molecular complex composed of RNA and protein that plays a critical role in RNA splicing.

Exonic Splicing Enhancers (ESEs)

Sequences in exons that promote splicing when bound by proteins.

Exonic Splicing Silencers (ESSs)

Sequences that inhibit splicing when bound by regulatory proteins.