4.2 DNA & Protein Synthesis Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the genome?
The complete set of genetic information contained in the cells of an organism.
What is a proteome?
The complete set of proteins that can be produced by a cell.
Structure of messenger RNA (mRNA)
A long, single strand. Its base sequence is complementary to the DNA it was transcribed from.
What is a key advantage of mRNA being shorter and containing uracil?
It breaks down quickly, preventing excess polypeptide formation.
Why is the single-stranded and linear structure of mRNA advantageous for translation?
It allows the ribosome to move along the strand and tRNA to bind to exposed bases.
What is a characteristic of mRNA that contributes to its efficiency in translation?
It contains no introns.
Structure of transfer RNA (tRNA)
A single strand of around 80 nucleotides that is folded over into a clover leaf shape. On one end is an anti-codon, on the opposite end is an amino acid binding site.
Product of transcription
mRNA.
Location of transcription
In the nucleus.
What happens to DNA during transcription?
DNA uncoils into two strands with exposed bases.
What is used as a template during transcription?
One of the uncoiled DNA strands.
What do free nucleotides do during transcription?
They line up next to their complementary bases.
What enzyme joins nucleotides together during transcription?
RNA polymerase.
What happens to mRNA after transcription
In eukaryotic cells, pre-mRNA must be spliced to remove introns, leaving only the coding regions. Then it moves out of the nucleus and attaches to a ribosome.
Product of translation
Proteins.
Location of translation
In the cytoplasm (on ribosomes).
What does the anti-codon of tRNA attach to during translation?
Complementary bases on the mRNA.
What forms peptide bonds during the process of translation?
Amino acids bonded to tRNA.
What is formed during translation until a stop codon is reached?
A polypeptide chain.
What energy molecule is required for the process of translation?
ATP.
