Finals Flashcards: RNA, Protein Synthesis & Mutations

Ribose

The sugar found in RNA.

Uracil

A nitrogen base found in RNA that replaces thymine.

mRNA

Messenger RNA; carries genetic instructions from DNA to the ribosome.

tRNA

Transfer RNA; brings amino acids to the ribosome.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA; makes up part of the ribosome.

Transcription

The process of making mRNA from a DNA template.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of proteins.

Translation

The process of using mRNA to build a protein.

Ribosome

The organelle where proteins are made.

Codon

A group of 3 bases on mRNA that codes for an amino acid.

Anticodon

A group of 3 bases on tRNA that matches a codon on mRNA.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids that forms a protein.

Peptide Bond

The bond that joins amino acids together.

RNA Polymerase

The enzyme that builds mRNA during transcription.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence.

Similarities Between DNA and RNA

Both are nucleic acids, made of nucleotides, contain adenine, cytosine, and guanine, and carry genetic information.

DNA Sugar

Deoxyribose.

RNA Sugar

Ribose.

DNA Bases

Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, Guanine (A, T, C, G).

RNA Bases

Adenine, Uracil, Cytosine, Guanine (A, U, C, G).

DNA Structure

Double

RNA Structure

Single

DNA Function

Stores genetic information.

RNA Function

Helps make proteins.

Location of DNA

Nucleus.

Location of RNA

Nucleus and cytoplasm.

Transcription Occurs In

The nucleus.

Product of Transcription

mRNA.

Translation Occurs At

Ribosomes in the cytoplasm.

Product of Translation

A protein (polypeptide).

Function of mRNA

Carries genetic instructions from DNA to the ribosome.

Function of tRNA

Brings the correct amino acids to the ribosome.

Function of Ribosome

Reads mRNA and builds proteins.

Protein Synthesis

The process of making proteins through transcription and translation.

DNA Base Pairing

A pairs with T, and C pairs with G.

RNA Base Pairing

A pairs with U, and C pairs with G.

Steps of Transcription

DNA unzips, RNA polymerase builds mRNA, and mRNA leaves the nucleus.

Steps of Translation

mRNA attaches to a ribosome, tRNA brings amino acids, and amino acids join to form a protein.