The spliceosome cuts RNA.
The spliceosome is a large RNA-protein complex that plays a crucial role in RNA processing, specifically in the splicing of pre-mRNA (precursor messenger RNA) in eukaryotic cells. During splicing, the spliceosome removes non-coding regions called introns from the pre-mRNA and joins the coding regions, known as exons, together to form a mature mRNA molecule.
Here's a breakdown of the spliceosome's function in cutting RNA:
- Intron Recognition: The spliceosome recognizes specific sequences at the boundaries of introns and exons.
- Lariat Formation: The spliceosome brings the intron's ends together, forming a loop-like structure called a lariat.
- RNA Cleavage and Ligation: The spliceosome then cuts the RNA at the exon-intron boundaries, releasing the intron (as a lariat) and joining the two flanking exons together. This crucial cutting action is essential for creating functional mRNA.
In summary, the spliceosome precisely cuts RNA at specific locations to remove introns and create mature mRNA.
