Chapter 12, Problem 1FIB

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The genes can be defined as the sequence of the nucleotides, which codes for the function in a genome. In all the cells present in the living organisms, the genetic information is coded by DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The information coded by DNA guides the cell to carry out the functions; however, the DNA itself does not perform any work. The information coded by DNA is translated to different forms which carry out the functions in the cells.

Answer to Problem 1FIB

Correct answer:

Synthesis of RNA from the instructions in DNA is called transcription. Synthesis of a protein from the instructions in $\text{mRNA}$ is called translation. Ribosome structure in the cell is the site of protein synthesis.

Explanation of Solution

The transcription is the process which leads to the formation of the $\text{mRNA}$(messenger ribonucleic acid) from the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), with the use of RNA polymerase.

The proteins are synthesized by the process known as the translation, which occurs in the cytoplasm. During the process of translation, the base sequence of $\text{mRNA}$ is decoded by translational machinery. Ribosome acts as the platform in which $\text{mRNA}$ and $\text{tRNA}$(transfer RNA) base pairs, converts the nucleotide sequence in amino acid sequence.

The translation is carried out by the ribosomes, which are attached to the endoplasmic reticulum or lie freely in the cytoplasm. The synthesized proteins have different fates. So, the structure of the cell which acts as the site of protein synthesis is ribosome.

Conclusion

The process of synthesis of RNA from DNA is known as transcription whereas the process of synthesis of protein from $\text{mRNA}$ is known as translation. The site of protein synthesis is ribosome.