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Multiple Choice
During RNA processing, a(n) _____ is added to the 5' end of the RNA.
A
7-methylguanosine cap
B
poly(A) tail
C
spliceosome
D
intron
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of RNA processing: RNA processing is a critical step in eukaryotic gene expression where the primary RNA transcript (pre-mRNA) is modified to become mature mRNA. This includes the addition of specific structures to the RNA ends and the removal of non-coding regions.
Focus on the 5' end modification: During RNA processing, a specific structure is added to the 5' end of the RNA to protect it from degradation and assist in ribosome binding during translation.
Identify the structure added to the 5' end: The structure added is called the 7-methylguanosine cap (commonly referred to as the 5' cap). This cap is a modified guanine nucleotide with a methyl group attached.
Differentiate the other options: The poly(A) tail is added to the 3' end of the RNA, not the 5' end. The spliceosome is a complex responsible for removing introns (non-coding regions) from the RNA, and introns are the sequences being removed during splicing.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the information, the correct answer to what is added to the 5' end of the RNA during processing is the 7-methylguanosine cap.