Identify the three main types of RNA and explain the function of each.

Human Biology (MindTap Course List)
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305112100
Author:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Publisher:Cecie Starr, Beverly McMillan
Chapter21: Dna, Genes, And Biotechnology
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 5RQ
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Identify the three main types of RNA and explain the function of each.

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Step 1

RNA (ribonucleic acid) is responsible for the synthesis of the molecules that carry out essential cellular functions. RNA contains four nucleotide bases, namely adenine (A), guanine (G), thymine (T), and cytosine (C).

Step 2

The three main types of RNA molecules and their functions are as follows:

Messenger RNA (mRNA):

It is a single-stranded RNA molecule formed during the process of transcription. It carries the genetic information from the DNA present in the nucleus to the cytoplasm where protein synthesis occurs. The mRNA carries the genetic information in the form of three-base codes, each of which specifies the particular amino acid.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA):

It is a type of non-coding RNA component of ribosomes. It helps in translating the information present in the mRNA into protein. They are responsible for reading the order of amino acids and linking amino acids together. They catalyze the assembly of amino acids into protein chains. They also bind tRNAs and various accessory molecules necessary for protein synthesis.

Transfer RNA (tRNA):

It is a type of RNA molecule that helps to decode mRNA into protein. It functions at specific sites in the ribosome during the process of translation. One of the regions of tRNA contains three bases in a sequence known as anticodon which permits the binding of mRNA with tRNA. The second region of tRNA has 3’ end with which amino acids get attached and helps in the transportation of amino acids to the region of protein synthesis.

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