RNA metabolic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The cellular chemical reactions and pathways involving RNA, ribonucleic acid, one of the two main type of nucleic acid, consisting of a long, unbranched macromolecule formed from ribonucleotides joined in 3',5'-phosphodiester linkage. [ISBN:0198506732]

RNA metabolic process is a fundamental biological process encompassing all the biochemical reactions and molecular events involved in the synthesis, processing, modification, transport, degradation, and function of RNA molecules. This process is essential for all living organisms, as RNA plays crucial roles in gene expression, protein synthesis, and regulation of cellular processes.

The RNA metabolic process can be broadly divided into several key stages:

1. **Transcription:** The process of copying genetic information from DNA into RNA. This is catalyzed by RNA polymerase enzymes, which utilize a DNA template to synthesize a complementary RNA molecule.

2. **RNA processing:** Once transcribed, RNA molecules often undergo modifications and processing to become functional. This can include:
* **Capping:** Addition of a modified guanine nucleotide (5' cap) to the 5' end of the RNA molecule, protecting it from degradation and facilitating its binding to ribosomes.
* **Splicing:** Removal of non-coding sequences (introns) from the RNA molecule, leaving behind only the coding sequences (exons). This process is essential for generating mature mRNA molecules that can be translated into proteins.
* **Polyadenylation:** Addition of a poly(A) tail to the 3' end of the RNA molecule, enhancing its stability and promoting its transport out of the nucleus.

3. **RNA transport:** Mature RNA molecules are transported from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where they can participate in protein synthesis or perform other regulatory functions.

4. **Translation:** The process of converting the genetic code carried by mRNA into a protein sequence. This involves the interaction of mRNA with ribosomes and transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules, which deliver amino acids to the ribosome for incorporation into the growing polypeptide chain.

5. **RNA degradation:** RNA molecules have a finite lifespan and are eventually degraded through enzymatic processes. This is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and preventing accumulation of unwanted RNA transcripts.

6. **RNA regulation:** RNA molecules are subject to a wide range of regulatory mechanisms that control their expression, stability, and function. These mechanisms involve interactions with proteins, other RNA molecules, and small molecules, and play crucial roles in cellular processes like gene expression, development, and response to environmental stimuli.

In summary, RNA metabolic process is a complex and multifaceted process that is essential for all aspects of cellular life. It involves a variety of enzymatic reactions, molecular interactions, and regulatory mechanisms that work together to ensure the proper synthesis, processing, transport, translation, and degradation of RNA molecules.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (955)