BIO 181 – General Biology I Lecture 15: Transcription & Translation

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to the processes of transcription and translation as discussed in the lecture.

Transcription

The process of copying DNA information into RNA nucleotide sequences.

mRNA (Messenger RNA)

Temporary carrier of genetic information from chromosomes to ribosomes.

rRNA (Ribosomal RNA)

Forms complexes with ribosomal proteins to synthesize polypeptides.

tRNA (Transfer RNA)

Transports amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.

Template strand

The DNA strand that RNA polymerase reads during transcription.

Non-template strand

The DNA strand that has the same sequence as the mRNA (with uracil replacing thymine).

Sigma factor

A regulatory subunit that helps RNA polymerase initiate transcription.

Promoter

A gene sequence where transcription begins.

Hairpin loop

Structure that forms during transcription termination, causing the RNA to separate from polymerase.

Guanosine cap

A 5' cap added to primary RNA transcripts that serves as a recognition signal for translation machinery.

Poly(A) tail

A series of adenine nucleotides added to the 3' end of the mRNA to extend its life.

Codon

A cluster of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Stop codon

Nucleotide codon that signals the termination of translation.

Aminoacyl tRNA

tRNA that is covalently linked to its corresponding amino acid.

Release factor

A protein that recognizes stop codons and catalyzes the termination of translation.

Point mutations

Changes affecting only one or a few base pairs in the DNA sequence.

Frameshift mutations

Mutations that alter the reading frame of codons in the mRNA.