Overview of DNA Function and Protein Synthesis

DNA

Universal genetic material in all living organisms.

Genetic Code

Instructions for building proteins from DNA.

Coding Regions

Segments of DNA that code for proteins.

Exons

Expressed segments of genes that code for proteins.

Introns

Non Coding segments of DNA within genes.

Transcription

Process of converting DNA to mRNA.

tRNA

Transfer RNA, carries amino acids to ribosomes.

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA, structural component of ribosomes.

Translation

Process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA.

Promoter Region

DNA sequence marking the start of transcription.

RNA Polymerase

Enzyme that synthesizes RNA from DNA template.

Replication

Process of copying DNA before cell division.

Gene Expression

Process by which information from a gene is used.

Point Mutations

Changes in a single nucleotide in DNA.

Hormones

Proteins that regulate physiological processes.

Genetic Fingerprint

Unique pattern of DNA that identifies individuals.