What is the significance of the 5' cap and poly-A tail in mRNA?

Practice Questions

Q1
What is the significance of the 5' cap and poly-A tail in mRNA?
  1. They are involved in DNA replication
  2. They protect mRNA from degradation and assist in translation
  3. They are required for transcription initiation
  4. They help in the splicing of introns

Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions

What is the significance of the 5' cap and poly-A tail in mRNA?
  • Step 1: Understand that mRNA is a type of molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are made.
  • Step 2: Learn that the 5' cap is a special structure added to the beginning of the mRNA molecule.
  • Step 3: Know that the 5' cap helps protect the mRNA from being broken down by enzymes in the cell.
  • Step 4: Recognize that the 5' cap also helps the ribosomes recognize and bind to the mRNA for translation.
  • Step 5: Understand that the poly-A tail is a string of adenine nucleotides added to the end of the mRNA molecule.
  • Step 6: Learn that the poly-A tail also protects the mRNA from degradation and helps in the export of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.
  • Step 7: Know that both the 5' cap and poly-A tail are important for the stability of mRNA and for making sure proteins are produced correctly.
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