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Multiple Choice
Which pre-mRNA processing step is important for initiating translation?
A
Polyadenylation
B
Intron splicing
C
RNA editing
D
5' capping
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that pre-mRNA processing involves several modifications to the initial RNA transcript to become a mature mRNA, which is then translated into a protein.
Recognize that 5' capping is the addition of a modified guanine nucleotide to the 5' end of the pre-mRNA. This cap is crucial for the stability of the mRNA and its recognition by the ribosome.
Identify that the 5' cap serves as a binding site for ribosomes, which are the molecular machines that read the mRNA sequence and synthesize proteins. This makes 5' capping essential for initiating translation.
Differentiate 5' capping from other pre-mRNA processing steps such as polyadenylation (adding a poly-A tail to the 3' end) and intron splicing (removing non-coding sequences), which have different roles in mRNA stability and export from the nucleus.
Conclude that among the given options, 5' capping is the pre-mRNA processing step directly involved in initiating translation by facilitating ribosome binding.