RNA processing

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process involved in the conversion of one or more primary RNA transcripts into one or more mature RNA molecules. [GOC:mah]

RNA processing is a fundamental biological process that transforms precursor messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) transcripts into mature messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules. These mRNA molecules then serve as templates for protein synthesis. This intricate process involves a series of coordinated steps, including capping, splicing, and polyadenylation.

Capping: A 5' cap, consisting of a 7-methylguanosine (m7G) residue, is added to the 5' end of the pre-mRNA molecule. This cap is essential for the recognition and binding of the mRNA by the ribosome during translation. The cap also protects the mRNA from degradation by exonucleases.

Splicing: Introns, non-coding sequences within the pre-mRNA, are removed through a process called splicing. Splicing is catalyzed by a complex molecular machinery called the spliceosome, which is composed of proteins and small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). The spliceosome recognizes specific sequences at the 5' and 3' ends of introns and precisely excises them, joining the flanking exons together. Alternative splicing allows for the generation of multiple protein isoforms from a single gene, increasing the diversity of the proteome.

Polyadenylation: A poly(A) tail, consisting of a string of adenine nucleotides, is added to the 3' end of the pre-mRNA. The poly(A) tail plays a crucial role in the stability, transport, and translation of the mRNA molecule. It protects the mRNA from degradation by exonucleases and helps in the recognition and binding of the mRNA by the ribosome.

These RNA processing events are highly regulated and are essential for the production of functional proteins. Errors in RNA processing can lead to a variety of diseases, including genetic disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (8)