Describe how mRNA is produced in the nucleus of a cell

mRNA is a molecule produced in the process of transcription, the first stage of protein synthesis from a DNA molecule. First, DNA Helicase, an enzyme, is used to break the hydrogen bonds holding the double stranded DNA together, leaving two separate DNA strands. One strand is called the template strand and this contains bases to which free RNA nucleotides in the nucleus are attracted to. These nucleotides join up to the exposed bases on the template strand by a process called complementary base pairing. The enzyme, RNA polymerase is then used to join the RNA nucleotides to each other, forming the RNA strand, pre-mRNA. This pre-mRNA then undergoes splicing which removes introns (non-coding base sequences), resulting in the production of mRNA.

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

(a) (i) Give a biological molecule that contains: 1. nitrogen 2. phosphorous (ii) Describe the role of microorganisms in producing nitrates from the remains of dead organims.


Haemophilia is a disease that affects blood clotting. People with haemophilia are sometimes given a protein called factor VIII. Factor VIII is an enzyme that is involved in the process of blood clotting. Explain how a change in the primary structure of f


Outline the roles of synapses in the nervous system


Describe and explain the effects of pH, temperature, enzyme concentration and substrate concentration on enzyme activity


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