The process of copying genetic information from one strand of DNA to R...
The process of copying genetic information from one strand of the DNA into RNA is termed as transcription. Unlike the process of replication, which once sets in, the total DNA of an organism gets duplicated, in transcription only a segment of DNA and only one of the strands is copied into RNA.
The process of copying genetic information from one strand of DNA to R...
Transcription:
Transcription is the process by which genetic information from a DNA strand is copied into a complementary RNA molecule. This process is essential for gene expression, as the information stored in DNA needs to be transcribed into RNA in order to be utilized by the cell.
Steps of Transcription:
- Initiation: Transcription begins with the binding of RNA polymerase to a specific region of DNA called the promoter. This marks the start site for transcription.
- Elongation: RNA polymerase moves along the DNA template, unwinding the double helix and synthesizing an RNA molecule that is complementary to the DNA strand.
- Termination: Transcription ends when RNA polymerase reaches a termination signal in the DNA sequence, causing the RNA molecule to be released.
Differences from Replication:
- Replication is the process of copying an entire DNA molecule, while transcription only copies a specific gene or region of DNA.
- Replication involves the synthesis of a new DNA strand, while transcription produces an RNA molecule.
In conclusion, transcription is a crucial biological process that allows genetic information stored in DNA to be transcribed into RNA, which can then be used by the cell to synthesize proteins and carry out various functions.