Protein Synthesis: Transcription and Translation

CP Biology

Why are proteins important to the cell?

• Proteins are building blocks – they make up your body structures, determine your traits– they are YOU!

• Proteins are made according to the information in your DNA…your genes.

What is RNA?

• RNA = ribonucleic acid• Single-strand of nucleotides• Different sugar – ribose• Contains Uracil (U) instead of Thymine (T)

Why is RNA needed?

• It is small enough to fit through the nuclear pores to travel outside the cell.

• Where does it go?• Messenger RNA – called mRNA takes the

message from DNA to the ribosome

“Central Dogma of Genetics”

DNA RNA Protein

Video Clip