RNAmolekyyliin

RNA molekyyliin, often referred to as RNA, is a crucial nucleic acid involved in various biological processes within all living cells. It is a polymer composed of a chain of nucleotide monomers. Each nucleotide consists of a ribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), or uracil (U). Unlike DNA, RNA typically exists as a single strand, though it can fold upon itself to form complex three-dimensional structures.

The primary function of RNA is to act as an intermediary in the transfer of genetic information from DNA to proteins. Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic code transcribed from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where protein synthesis occurs. Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules are responsible for bringing specific amino acids to the ribosome, matching them to the codons on the mRNA sequence to build the polypeptide chain. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is a structural and catalytic component of ribosomes, playing a vital role in protein synthesis.

Beyond these central roles, RNA molecules also participate in gene regulation, acting as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) to control gene expression. Some RNA molecules even possess enzymatic activity, known as ribozymes, catalyzing biochemical reactions. The diverse functions and structural adaptability of RNA make it a fundamental molecule in the molecular biology of life.