D1.2.1 Transcription as the synthesis of RNA using a DNA template Flashcards
(20 cards)
Give an example of transcription in action.
In pancreatic cells, transcription of the insulin gene produces mRNA, which is translated into insulin.
What is the difference between transcription and gene expression?
Transcription is the process of copying DNA to RNA, while gene expression encompasses the entire process of producing observable traits from genetic information.
What is the relationship between transcription and protein synthesis?
Transcription converts DNA instructions into RNA, which then guides protein synthesis.
What is the role of RNA in relation to DNA?
RNA serves as a working copy of the DNA blueprint, allowing for the use of genetic information without damaging the DNA.
What is the base pairing rule between DNA and RNA?
In RNA, adenine (A) pairs with uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
What is a promoter?
A promoter is a specific DNA region where RNA polymerase binds to initiate transcription, signaling the start of a gene.
Define transcription.
Transcription is the process by which the genetic information encoded in a DNA sequence is copied into a complementary RNA sequence.
Is transcription a regulated process?
Yes, transcription is a precise and regulated process.
What is a transcriptome?
A transcriptome is the full range of RNA molecules produced in a cell, which varies based on the cell’s functions.
Why is transcription important?
Transcription is the first step in gene expression, converting DNA instructions into RNA, which guides protein synthesis.
What type of bonds does RNA polymerase form to create the RNA backbone?
RNA polymerase catalyzes the formation of covalent sugar-phosphate bonds.
How does RNA polymerase synthesize the RNA strand?
RNA polymerase moves along the template strand, adding RNA nucleotides one by one, relying on complementary base pairing.
What is the difference between the template strand and the coding strand?
Template Strand: The DNA strand that is read by RNA polymerase to make mRNA. It is complementary to the mRNA and also called the antisense strand.
Coding Strand: The DNA strand that has the same sequence as the mRNA (except T is replaced by U in mRNA). It is also called the sense strand and is not directly used in transcription.
What happens to the DNA double helix during transcription?
RNA polymerase unwinds the DNA double helix, exposing the template and coding strands.
How does DNA stability contribute to transcription?
DNA’s stability ensures accurate transcription, preserving genetic information across multiple copies.
What happens to the RNA molecule after transcription?
The RNA molecule is released, and the DNA helix reforms.
What signals the end of transcription?
Transcription ends when RNA polymerase reaches a termination sequence.
What is the key enzyme involved in transcription?
RNA polymerase.
Are all genes active in every cell?
No, not all genes are active in every cell. For example, the insulin gene is only transcribed in pancreatic β cells.
What happens when the DNA template strand reads ATCG?
The corresponding RNA strand will read UAGC due to complementary base pairing.
