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Multiple Choice
When is the 5' cap added to a pre-mRNA during eukaryotic RNA processing?
A
During RNA splicing
B
After transcription is complete
C
During transcription, shortly after initiation
D
During translation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that eukaryotic RNA processing involves several modifications to the pre-mRNA, including the addition of a 5' cap, splicing, and polyadenylation.
Recognize that the 5' cap is a modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of the pre-mRNA. This cap is crucial for mRNA stability, nuclear export, and translation initiation.
Identify the timing of the 5' cap addition: it occurs during transcription, specifically shortly after the initiation phase. This means the cap is added while the RNA polymerase is still synthesizing the RNA strand.
Differentiate this process from RNA splicing, which involves the removal of introns and occurs after the 5' cap addition, and from translation, which is the process of protein synthesis occurring in the cytoplasm.
Conclude that the 5' cap is added early in the transcription process, ensuring that the pre-mRNA is properly processed and protected as it is synthesized.