RNA Structure And Function Flashcards
What is RNA?
A nucleotide of ribose, a nitrogenous base and a phosphate group.
What are the bases in RNA?
Adenine, guanine, cytosine and uracil.
What is the function of RNA?
To copy and transfer genetic code from DNA to ribosomes.
What are the three types of RNA?
mRNA, tRNA and rRNA.
What is messenger RNA?
A copy of a gene from DNA.
Where is mRNA created?
In the nucleus.
What is the function of mRNA?
To carry the copy of the genetic code of one gene to a ribosome in the cytoplasm.
What is a key feature of mRNA?
It is much shorter than DNA as it is the length of one gene.
What is an advantage of mRNA being shorter than DNA?
It can leave the nucleus, unlike DNA.
Why does mRNA leave the nucleus rather than DNA?
DNA would be at risk of being damaged by enzymes and destroying the genetic code as it’s so large.
What are the other features of mRNA?
It is short-lived and single-stranded.
Where is transfer RNA found?
Only in the cytoplasm.
What is a feature of tRNA?
It is single stranded.
What is tRNA folded into?
A cloverleaf shape.
What is tRNAs shape held in place by?
Hydrogen bonds.
