Chapter 14 - RNA Molecules & RNA Processing

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to RNA molecules and processing, focusing on their structure, function, and the processes involved in their modification.

Intron

A noncoding sequence of DNA within a gene that is removed during RNA splicing.

Exon

A coding sequence of DNA that is retained in the mature mRNA after processing.

Poly(A) tail

A stretch of adenine nucleotides added to the 3' end of mRNA to increase stability and facilitate export from the nucleus.

5' cap

A modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of mRNA that protects mRNA from degradation and assists in ribosome binding.

Alternative splicing

A process by which different combinations of exons are joined together to produce different mRNAs from the same gene.

Guide RNA

RNA molecules that play a critical role in RNA editing by acting as templates for adding or altering nucleotide sequences.

RISC

RNA-induced silencing complex that incorporates small RNA molecules to regulate mRNA and inhibit translation.

CRISPR RNA

A type of RNA found in prokaryotes that helps defend against foreign DNA and is involved in the adaptive immune response.

RNA editing

The process by which the nucleotide sequence of RNA is altered after transcription, often involving the insertion or deletion of nucleotides.

Spliceosome

A complex of RNA and protein that facilitates the removal of introns from pre-mRNA.