MRNA

mRNA or Messenger RNA is a type of RNA that carries the genetic information from DNA in the nucleus of a cell to the ribosome in the cytoplasm, where it specifies the sequence of amino acids in a protein.

Structure

mRNA is a single-stranded molecule, with a structure that is much like a half-DNA molecule. It is synthesized from a DNA template in a process called transcription. During transcription, a strand of mRNA is made that is complementary to a strand of DNA.

Function

The main function of mRNA is to act as an intermediary between the genetic information in DNA and the amino acid sequence of proteins. This is done through a process called translation, where ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and translate it into a chain of amino acids, or a protein.

Types

There are three types of mRNA: monocistronic, polycistronic, and bicistronic. Monocistronic mRNA carries the genetic information for just one gene, while polycistronic mRNA carries the information for more than one gene. Bicistronic mRNA carries the information for two genes.

Role in Disease

Alterations in the sequence or structure of mRNA can lead to disease. For example, mutations in the mRNA sequence can result in the production of a dysfunctional protein, leading to disease. Additionally, some viruses, such as the HIV and coronavirus, use mRNA to replicate their genetic material inside host cells.

See Also

• DNA
• RNA
• Transcription (genetics)
• Translation (biology)
• Protein synthesis

MRNA Resources
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