Messenger RNA

Pronunciation
/mes-en-jer ruh-NA/
Category
Molecular Biology
Singular
Messenger RNA
Plural
Messenger RNAs

Definition

A single-stranded RNA molecule that carries genetic information from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where it directs the assembly of proteins.

Etymology

From 'messenger' and 'RNA'.

Example

Messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules are synthesized in the nucleus and then transported to the cytoplasm for protein synthesis.

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