What is the process/processes by which cells use the information in DNA to build proteins? (1 point)
Transcription and Translation Photosynthesis
Glycolysis
Protein degradation
The process by which cells use the information in DNA to build proteins is called Transcription and Translation. This process involves two main steps:
1. Transcription: It occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells or in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells, where the DNA sequence is first transcribed into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. An enzyme called RNA polymerase binds to the DNA molecule at a specific site called the promoter and unwinds the double helix. Then, it uses one of the DNA strands as a template to synthesize a complementary mRNA molecule, following the rules of base pairing (A with U and G with C). The mRNA molecule is a copy of the gene's DNA sequence and contains the instructions for building a specific protein.
2. Translation: This step takes place in the cytoplasm, specifically on the ribosomes. The mRNA molecule moves out of the nucleus into the cytoplasm, where it binds to a ribosome. The ribosome "reads" the mRNA sequence and uses it as a template to assemble a chain of amino acids in the correct order, according to the instructions carried by the mRNA. Amino acids are brought to the ribosome by transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules, which have an anticodon that binds to the complementary codon on the mRNA. This process continues until the ribosome reaches a stop codon on the mRNA, signaling the end of protein synthesis. The newly synthesized protein is then folded into its functional conformation and can perform its specific role in the cell.
So, the correct answer is Transcription and Translation.
What is the initial step in protein synthesis, during which the information from DNA is transcribed into a complementary RNA molecule? (1 point)
Translation Transcription Translocation Replication