Explain how transcription of genes occurs

Transcription occurs in the nucleus of the cell.The enzyme DNA helicase catalyses the 'unzipping' or splitting of the two DNA chains in the region of the gene by catalysing the breaking of the hydrogen bonds holding the chains together.RNA polymerase catalyses complementary mRNA nucleotides to form a complementary strand with the exposed bases. mRNA bases are ACGU rather than ACGT as in DNA.The mRNA then leaves the nucleus to carry the information of how to make the protein coded by the gene to the ribosomes. Each gene codes for the formation of one protein.The mRNA is a very small molecule and so can pass through the nuclear pore into the cytoplasm to travel to the ribosomes.

Answered by Vanessa T. Biology tutor

1926 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how a recessive phenotype can be produced from two parents with a dominant phenotype


What are the functions of white blood cells?


Can you explain the difference between diffusion and osmosis?


How is the structure of the lung adapted for respiratory function?


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