Role of DNA and RNA in Protein Synthesis

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to the role of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis, including processes such as transcription and translation, and the structure and function of associated molecules.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, a long molecule containing the unique genetic code and instructions for making proteins.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid, a molecule transcribed from DNA that is involved in the synthesis of proteins.

Double Helix

The shape of DNA, consisting of two linked strands that wind around each other.

Nucleotide

The repeating unit of DNA, composed of sugar, phosphate, and a base.

Gene

A shorter segment of DNA that codes for proteins and determines individual characteristics.

Transcription

The process by which the information in a strand of DNA is copied into a new molecule of mRNA.

Translation

The process in which ribosomes synthesize proteins from the mRNA sequence.

Codon

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

Ribosome

The cellular structure where protein synthesis occurs, using mRNA as a template.

tRNA

Transfer RNA; a type of RNA that carries amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

Amino Acid

The building blocks of proteins, linked together during translation to form polypeptide chains.

Peptide Bond

The bond that links amino acids together in a protein.

Meiosis

The process that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes for sexual reproduction.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations among individuals.

Template strand

The strand of DNA that serves as a guide for synthesizing mRNA during transcription.

Initiation (in transcription)

The first stage of transcription where RNA polymerase binds to the promoter.

Elongation (in transcription)

The stage of transcription where RNA nucleotides are added to the growing mRNA strand.

Termination (in transcription)

The stage in transcription when the RNA transcript is completed and released.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that is complementary to an mRNA codon.

Aminoacyl tRNA synthetase

Enzymes that link amino acids to their corresponding tRNA.

Genetic Code

The set of rules that defines how the nucleotide sequence of DNA translates into the amino acid sequence of proteins.