What are the Components of Total RNA?

August 20 10:15 2018 Print This Article

Introduction

RNA is a short form for ribonucleic acid. It is a crucial molecule that contains nucleotides. It performs various functions in the body like coding, regulation, decoding and the expression of genes. Ribonucleic acid molecules are divided into two major categories namely informational and operational.

Total RNA refers to all types of ribonucleic acids in a cell. It encompasses all kinds of ribonucleic acids including Ribosomal RNA, transfer RNA, mRNA and minor species of RNA in a cell. Some ribonucleic acid molecules play essential roles in catalyzing reactions and controlling expressions of genes. This article will provide information about the components of total RNA that you need to know, if that is now enough click here to learn more about total RNA.

Total RNA Components Explained.

Ribonucleic acid is made up of different components that help it to perform its functions. Here are some types of RNA that you need to know as discussed below:

Messenger RNA (mRNA)

This is a type of ribonucleic acid that carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosome; they determine the amino acid sequence in a protein. It was first discovered by scientists Lazarus Astrachan and Elliot Volkin in 1958.Because the information that is being passed from the DNA is not decoded directly into various proteins, it is first transcribed to a mRNA.

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)

These are non-coding ribonucleic acids that are responsible for the process of translation. Translation is the process of decoding instructions to help your body to make proteins. They are like the machines that catalyze the synthesis of proteins.

It is also an essential component of the ribosome. They are used to establish evolutionary relationships between living organisms since they are found in all organisms and have an ancient origin.

Ribosomal RNA properties are crucial in evolution, thus medicine and taxonomy. It is vital because it is one of the genes that are present in all cells. This is what makes them useful in identifying the taxonomic groups of various species.

rRNA is a target for multiple clinical antibiotics such as erythromycin and thiostrepton. It is one of the valuable components of RNA that performs crucial functions in all living organisms.

Transfer RNA

These are ribonucleic acid molecules that act as transporters of amino acids. They serve as a link between Amino acid sequences and nucleotides. They perform at specific sites inside the ribosome during the process of translation. They help to carry amino acids to the ribosome where the process of protein synthesis
takes place.

Conclusion

Ribonucleic acid is found almost in all living organisms. It is composed of a ribose, sugar bases and phosphate. Though situated in the cytoplasm, it is produced in the nucleus of the cell. Here is a summary of the functions of components of total RNA as discussed below:

-They assist the cell to produce enough proteins

-They regulate the process of expression of genes

– They catalyze biological processes in the body

-They are useful when performing clinical trials for various antibiotics.

This article has provided information about the components of total RNA and their functions that readers wanted to know.

 

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Derrick Lopez
Derrick Lopez

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