Describe the process of transcription in detail (6 marks)

Transcription is the process by which a section of DNA acts as a template for the creation of a complementary mRNA strand. mRNA is needed for the creation of a polypeptide.
An enzyme called DNA helicase binds to a complementary start codon on the DNA and brakes the H bonds causing the DNA to unwind, exposing its bases.
Each exposed DNA base binds to a complementary free-floating RNA nucleotide (Cytosine with Guanine, and Uracil (replacing Thymine) with Adenine).
Another enzyme called RNA Polymerase moves along the DNA strand causing H bonds to form between the RNA bases to make a strand of RNA nucleotides. As polymerase moves along the DNA, the DNA Double Helix reforms behind the enzyme. DNA Polymerase detaches once it reaches a stop codon.
The new complementary strand of RNA bases formed from the DNA is called pre-mRNA and it detaches from the DNA.However, Pre-mRNA is too large to fit through the nuclear pore and leave the nucleus, therefore splicing takes place, to remove the non-coding introns, leaving behind the important exons. The mRNA is attracted to the ribosome in the cytoplasm, ready for translation to take place. 

Answered by Katherine H. Biology tutor

28588 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between an endocrine and exocrine gland?


What is protein Structure


Explain how formation of an enzyme-substrate complex increases the rate of reaction.


What gives rise to antibiotic resistance?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences