Table of contents

1. Introduction to Genetics51m
2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
8. DNA Replication1h 10m
9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
10. Transcription1h 0m
11. Translation58m
12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
14. Genetic Control of Development44m
15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
16. Transposable Elements47m
17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- Genetic Cloning
  9m
- Methods for Analyzing DNA
  9m
19. Cancer Genetics29m
- Overview of Cancer
  21m
- Cancer Mutations
  7m
20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
21. Population Genetics50m
- Hardy Weinberg
  19m
- Allelic Frequency Changes
  31m
22. Evolutionary Genetics29m

10. Transcription

RNA Modification and Processing

Genetics

10. Transcription

RNA Modification and Processing

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1:42 minutes

Problem 13a

Textbook Question

A short RNA molecule was isolated that demonstrated a hyperchromic shift, indicating secondary structure. Its sequence was determined to be
5'-AGGCGCCGACUCUACU-3'
Propose a two-dimensional model for this molecule.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of a hyperchromic shift: A hyperchromic shift refers to an increase in UV absorbance, often observed when double-stranded nucleic acids denature into single strands. This indicates that the RNA molecule has secondary structure, such as base pairing or stem-loop formations.

Analyze the RNA sequence: The given RNA sequence is 5'-AGGCGCCGACUCUACU-3'. Look for regions within the sequence that are complementary to each other, as these regions can form base pairs (A-U and G-C) to create secondary structures.

Identify potential complementary regions: Divide the sequence into smaller segments and check for complementary base pairing. For example, the segment 5'-AGGC-3' at the beginning of the sequence is complementary to the segment 5'-GCCU-3' near the middle of the sequence. This suggests the possibility of a stem-loop structure.

Propose a two-dimensional model: Based on the complementary regions, draw a stem-loop structure. The 'stem' is formed by the complementary base pairs (e.g., G-C and A-U), while the 'loop' is formed by the unpaired bases (e.g., UCUACU). Ensure that the model reflects the sequence's ability to form stable secondary structures.

Verify the model: Check that the proposed secondary structure is consistent with the sequence and the concept of a hyperchromic shift. Ensure that the base-pairing rules are followed and that the structure is plausible for an RNA molecule.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Hyperchromic Shift

A hyperchromic shift refers to an increase in absorbance of UV light by nucleic acids, indicating changes in their secondary structure. This phenomenon often occurs when double-stranded RNA or DNA denatures into single strands, revealing more bases to absorb light. In the context of RNA, a hyperchromic shift suggests that the molecule has a complex secondary structure, which is crucial for its function.

RNA Secondary Structure

RNA secondary structure refers to the local folded structures formed by base pairing within the RNA molecule, such as hairpins, loops, and bulges. These structures are stabilized by hydrogen bonds between complementary bases and play a vital role in the molecule's stability and function. Understanding the secondary structure is essential for predicting how the RNA will interact with other molecules and perform its biological roles.

Two-Dimensional RNA Modeling

Two-dimensional RNA modeling involves creating a visual representation of the RNA molecule's secondary structure, illustrating how the strands fold and interact. This model helps in understanding the spatial arrangement of nucleotides and the overall shape of the RNA, which is critical for its biological activity. Tools like dot-bracket notation or software programs can be used to depict these structures accurately.

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Multiple Choice

The spliceosome is made up of which of the following components?

Which of the following is not a sequence that the spliceosome recognizes?

After transcription the RNA sequence cannot be changed or modified before translation.

Answer these questions concerning promoters. What role do promoters play in transcription?

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Textbook Question

Present an overview of various forms of posttranscriptional RNA processing in eukaryotes. For each, provide an example.

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Textbook Question

One form of posttranscriptional modification of most eukaryotic pre-mRNAs is the addition of a poly-A sequence at the 3' end. The absence of a poly-A sequence leads to rapid degradation of the transcript. Poly-A sequences of various lengths are also added to many bacterial RNA transcripts where, instead of promoting stability, they enhance degradation. In both cases, RNA secondary structures, stabilizing proteins, or degrading enzymes interact with poly-A sequences. Considering the activities of RNAs, what might be general functions of 3'-polyadenylation?

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Textbook Question

Describe the role of two forms of RNA editing that lead to changes in the size and sequence of pre-mRNAs. Briefly describe several examples of each form of editing, including their impact on respective protein products.

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Textbook Question

Substitution RNA editing is known to involve either C-to-U or A-to-I conversions. What common chemical event accounts for each?

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