Messenger, transfer and ribosomal RNA, each with a distinct role in protein synthesis.
mRNA carries the gene message, tRNA has a cloverleaf shape with an anticodon and an amino acid attachment site, and rRNA forms the core of the ribosome. Others include snRNA (splicing), miRNA and siRNA (regulation).
RNA is single-stranded, uses ribose and uracil, and is typically shorter-lived than DNA.
Messenger, transfer and ribosomal RNA, each with a distinct role in protein synthesis.
RNA Types is one of the 51 topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Proteins, Carbon Chemistry, Primary Structure.
Some viruses, such as influenza and coronaviruses, store their genomes in RNA.
Work through the Beginner topics in Biomolecules & Biochemistry first, such as Water Properties, Carbon Chemistry, Carbohydrates, then return to RNA Types. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
The closest topics to RNA Types are Proteins, Carbon Chemistry, Primary Structure, Ribozymes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for RNA Types. To practise the whole of Biomolecules & Biochemistry, use the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz.
RNA Types: Messenger, transfer and ribosomal RNA, each with a distinct role in protein synthesis. Proteins: Polymers of amino acids that act as enzymes, structural parts, transporters, hormones and antibodies. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Proteins and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Biomolecules & Biochemistry quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Polymers of amino acids that act as enzymes, structural parts, transporters, hormones and antibodies.
⚗️ Biomolecules & BiochemistryCarbon forms four covalent bonds, allowing chains, rings and the huge variety of organic molecules in living things.
⚗️ Biomolecules & BiochemistryThe linear order of amino acids in a polypeptide, which determines all higher levels of folding.
⚗️ Biomolecules & BiochemistryRNA molecules with catalytic activity, supporting the RNA world hypothesis for life's origin.
⚗️ Biomolecules & Biochemistry