askvity

Does RNA copy DNA?

Published in Molecular Biology 1 min read

Yes, RNA copies DNA through a process called transcription.

Transcription is the fundamental process where an RNA copy is made from a gene's DNA sequence. This RNA copy, known as messenger RNA (mRNA), then carries the genetic information encoded in the DNA to be used for protein synthesis.

Understanding Transcription

Here's a more detailed look at transcription:

  • DNA as the Template: The DNA sequence serves as a template for creating the mRNA molecule.
  • mRNA as the Copy: mRNA is synthesized based on the DNA sequence, effectively acting as a copy of the gene's instructions.
  • Protein Information: This mRNA carries the code that dictates the sequence of amino acids in a protein.

In summary, during transcription, RNA polymerase enzyme reads the DNA sequence and synthesizes a complementary RNA molecule, effectively making a copy of the DNA's instructions for protein production.

Related Articles