RNA - Transcription, Translation, and Protein Synthesis
Ribonucleic Acid
DNA is contained on chromosomes, which never leave the nucleus of a cell. Proteins are synthesized by ribosomes that are located in the cytoplasm of a cell. It is the job of RNA to produce a copy of the codes held by DNA and bring that code to the ribosome for protein synthesis to occur. Before you learn about protein synthesis, it is important to recognize the differences between RNA and DNA, and learn about the different types of RNA. In this interactivity, investigate the ribonucleic acid. Click the player button to begin.
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Transcription
As you already know, DNA is located on a chromosome. Chromosomes are located inside of the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. DNA holds the code to produce proteins, but proteins are produced outside of the nucleus in ribosomes. In order for the ribosomes to receive the codes to create proteins, two processes must occur. The first process in protein synthesis is called transcription. In this interactivity, explore the process of transcription. Click the player button to begin.
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Translation
Once the DNA has been transcribed and the mRNA is constructed of different codons, the mRNA enters the cytoplasm and the process of translation begins. The process of translation is the final step of protein synthesis. During this process, transfer RNA (tRNA) will translate the messenger RNA (mRNA) codon, and a ribosome will produce a chain of amino acids, called a polypeptide, building the protein. In this interactivity, learn about the translation process. Click the player button to begin.
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Protein Synthesis
Cells act like a factory that builds RNA and produces proteins that are vital to the health and well-being of organisms. Transcription converts the DNA message into an intermediate molecule called RNA. Translation interprets the message into a chain of amino acids called a polypeptide. Polypeptides make up the proteins. Watch Protein Synthesis from eMediaVASM to review the processes of transcription and translation.
RNA - Transcription, Translation, and Protein Synthesis Review
Now that you investigated transcription, translation, and protein synthesis, review your knowledge. In this non-graded activity, read each question and select the correct response. Click the player button to get started.