RNA plays a key role in protein synthesis, which is the process of making proteins from genetic instructions. There are three main types of RNA, and each has a special job:
1. mRNA (Messenger RNA)
- Carries the genetic code from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosome in the cytoplasm.
- Acts like a blueprint for making a specific protein.
- Each group of three bases (a codon) on mRNA tells which amino acid to add next.
2. tRNA (Transfer RNA)
- Brings the correct amino acid to the ribosome.
- Has an anticodon that matches with the mRNA codon to ensure the right amino acid is added.
3. rRNA (Ribosomal RNA)
- Forms part of the ribosome, where proteins are built.
- Helps link amino acids together to form a chain (polypeptide).
In short:
- mRNA carries the instructions,
- tRNA brings the building blocks (amino acids), and
- rRNA helps put them together.
Together, these RNAs make sure the right protein is made from the DNA code.