The Structure of RNA: Explanation, Types & Functions

The Structure of RNA

DNA contains the base sequence, which codes for proteins, and almost all cells have DNA (which stores all our genetic information in its base sequence). It is a remarkable molecule with a double-helix structure, but we can't forget RNA ! RNA , another nucleic acid, is equally important as DNA, especially for protein synthesis. DNA and RNA go hand-in-hand.

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What is the main function of tRNA?

tRNA delivers amino acids to the ribosomes to add to the polypeptide chain.

What process does pre-mRNA undergo before translation?

pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells undergo mRNA splicing. This is where unwanted introns are removed, catalysed by spliceosomes.

Where does translation take place?

Ribosomes.

What is the main function of mRNA?

mRNA transfers the codons for a gene from the nucleus to the ribosomes found in the cytoplasm.

What is the end product of transcription?

pre-mRNA for eukaryotic cells. mRNA for prokaryotic cells.

What does the mRNA contain?

mRNA contains codons that are derived from the template strand of DNA. These codes for the protein/polypeptide to be synthesized.

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Frequently Asked Questions about The Structure of RNA

How does the structure of RNA differ from DNA?

DNA is made of two polynucleotide strands while RNA is only made of one polynucleotide chain.

DNA is a relatively larger and longer molecule than RNA.

DNA contains deoxyribose sugar while RNA contains ribose sugar.

DNA can contain a thymine base while RNA can contain a uracil base.

How are the structures of RNA and DNA similar?

DNA and RNA are similar in structure when considering both are made of at least one polynucleotide strand. In DNA and RNA nucleotides, both contain a phosphate group, a pentose sugar and a nitrogenous base.

Describe the function of DNA and RNA.

DNA functions to store all genetic information in its base sequence. Meanwhile, mRNA serves to transfer this genetic information to the ribosomes and tRNA functions to deliver amino acids in the creation of a polypeptide.

Describe the structure of DNA and RNA.

DNA is a double-helix molecule with antiparallel strands.

RNA molecules are shorter than DNA and contain only one polynucleotide chain. mRNA is a single-stranded helical structure and tRNA is folded into a cloverleaf-shaped structure.

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