SB3d Protein Synthesis Flashcards
codon
A set of three bases (a triplet) found in DNA and RNA. The genetic code is formed from patterns of codons.
complementary
Means ‘fitting together’. Complementary bases in a DNA molecule fit together.
genetic code
A set of rules defining how the base order in DNA or RNA is turned into a specific sequence of amino acids joined in a polypeptide chain.
messenger RNA (mRNA)
A single strand of RNA produced in transcription.
nuclear pore
A small hole in the membrane around the nucleus.
polypeptide
A chain of amino acids.
RNA
Abbreviation of ribonucleic acid. The molecule is made of phosphate groups and sugars (called ribose) linked together with one of four bases.
ribosome
A protein that attaches to mRNA. It allows transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules to match up with the mRNA codons and also joins the amino acids together.
RNA polymerase
An enzyme that creates mRNA from DNA.
template strand
The strand of a DNA molecule that RNA polymerase uses to make mRNA.
transcription
The process by which the genetic code in one strand of DNA molecules is used to make mRNA.
transfer RNA (tRNA)
A molecule of RNA that carries an amino acid.
translation
The process by which the genetic code in a molecule of mRNA is used to make a polypeptide.
uracil
A base found in RNA but not in DNA.
