is (are) the product of Transcription, and the starting material of Translation. A. tRNA B. Amino Acids C. mRNA D. Ribosomes
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C. mRNA
Explanation:
In the process of gene expression, two major steps are involved: transcription and translation. These steps help cells use the genetic code stored in DNA to build proteins, which carry out various functions necessary for life.
Transcription is the first step. It takes place in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. During transcription, an enzyme called RNA polymerase reads a segment of DNA and synthesizes a single-stranded molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA is complementary to the DNA template strand and carries the genetic information needed to make a protein. Therefore, mRNA is the product of transcription.
Once the mRNA is formed, it exits the nucleus and travels to the ribosome, a cell organelle that serves as the site of protein synthesis. This is where the process of translation begins.
In translation, the mRNA is used as a template to assemble a chain of amino acids in the correct sequence to form a protein. The ribosome reads the sequence of codons (three-nucleotide sequences) on the mRNA, and with the help of transfer RNA (tRNA), it brings in the correct amino acids. Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon that pairs with a specific codon on the mRNA and carries the corresponding amino acid.
In summary, mRNA is the direct product of transcription and serves as the starting material for translation. It acts as the messenger carrying genetic instructions from the DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized. Without mRNA, the information in DNA cannot be used to make proteins, making it a critical molecule in gene expression.
