Multiple Choice
When a ribosome reaches a stop codon during translation, what occurs?
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15. Gene Expression
Introduction to Transcription
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
The direction of synthesis of an RNA transcript is _____.
A
5' to 3'
B
N to C terminus
C
3' to 5'
D
C to N terminus
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the process of RNA synthesis: RNA transcription is the process by which RNA is synthesized from a DNA template. This occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and involves the enzyme RNA polymerase.
Recall the directionality of nucleic acids: DNA and RNA strands have a directionality defined by their 5' (five prime) and 3' (three prime) ends. The 5' end has a phosphate group, while the 3' end has a hydroxyl group (-OH).
Learn how RNA polymerase works: RNA polymerase reads the DNA template strand in the 3' to 5' direction, but synthesizes the RNA transcript in the 5' to 3' direction. This ensures that the RNA strand is complementary to the DNA template strand.
Eliminate incorrect options: The 'N to C terminus' and 'C to N terminus' options refer to protein synthesis, not RNA synthesis. The '3' to 5'' option is incorrect because RNA synthesis occurs in the 5' to 3' direction.
Conclude the correct answer: The direction of synthesis of an RNA transcript is 5' to 3'. This is a fundamental principle of molecular biology.
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