The process of making an RNA copy of a gene using DNA as a template.
RNA polymerase unwinds a short region of DNA and builds RNA 5' to 3' reading the template strand 3' to 5'. Steps: initiation (binding at the promoter), elongation and termination. The RNA is identical to the coding strand but with U for T.
Many copies of an RNA can be made from one gene, so the level of transcription controls how much protein is made.
The process of making an RNA copy of a gene using DNA as a template.
Transcription is one of the 52 topics in Molecular Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include DNA Replication, Messenger RNA, RNA Polymerase.
In prokaryotes, a single RNA polymerase transcribes all genes, while eukaryotes have three (Pol I, II, III).
Transcription is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Molecular Biology that pair well with it include Central Dogma, DNA Replication, Base Pairing.
The closest topics to Transcription are DNA Replication, Messenger RNA, RNA Polymerase, Promoter. 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 Transcription. To practise the whole of Molecular Biology, use the Molecular Biology quiz.
Transcription: The process of making an RNA copy of a gene using DNA as a template. DNA Replication: The copying of DNA before cell division so each daughter cell receives a full set of genes. 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 DNA Replication and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Molecular Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
The copying of DNA before cell division so each daughter cell receives a full set of genes.
🧫 Molecular BiologyA single-stranded RNA copy of a gene that carries instructions to the ribosome.
🧫 Molecular BiologyThe enzyme that builds an RNA strand complementary to the template DNA during transcription.
🧫 Molecular BiologyA DNA sequence where RNA polymerase and transcription factors bind to start transcription of a gene.
🧫 Molecular Biology