MASKED MRNA Meaning and
Definition
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Masked mRNA refers to a specific type of messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule found within the cells of living organisms. Messenger RNA is responsible for carrying genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes, where the information is then translated to synthesize proteins. However, masked mRNA differs from conventional mRNA in that it contains unique molecular modifications that hinder the translation of genetic information.
The term "masked" refers to the presence of certain structures or chemical modifications that hinder the interaction between mRNA and the translation machinery. These modifications usually occur at the 5' end or the 3' end of the mRNA molecule, effectively blocking the ribosomes' access to the genetic code and preventing protein synthesis.
Masked mRNA serves various regulatory functions within the cell. By inhibiting translation, it allows the cell to exert precise control over gene expression. It can also influence mRNA stability, localization, and the efficiency of translation initiation. These modifications can be reversible, meaning that they can be dynamically modified and removed to allow protein synthesis to proceed.
Furthermore, the masking of mRNA can help protect it from degradation by ribonucleases in the cytoplasm, ensuring its stability. It can also serve as a mechanism to store mRNA molecules in "standby" mode until specific signaling cues trigger the removal of the masking, enabling prompt protein production.
In conclusion, masked mRNA refers to a modified form of mRNA that is functionally "masked" to regulate gene expression and control protein synthesis within cells. It underscores the complexity of post-transcriptional gene regulation, playing a crucial role in various cellular processes.
Common Misspellings for MASKED MRNA
- nasked mrna
- kasked mrna
- jasked mrna
- mzsked mrna
- mssked mrna
- mwsked mrna
- mqsked mrna
- maaked mrna
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- maxked mrna
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- masjed mrna
- masmed mrna
- masled mrna
- masoed mrna
- masied mrna
- maskwd mrna
- masksd mrna
Etymology of MASKED MRNA
The term "Masked mRNA" is related to molecular biology and specifically refers to messenger RNA (mRNA) that has undergone masking or modification. The etymology of the word can be understood by breaking it down:
1. Masked: The word "mask" originated from the Middle French word "masque", which means a covering or disguise. In this context, "masked" implies that something has been covered or modified in some way. In molecular biology, masking mRNA refers to the addition of protective structures or modifications to prevent its degradation or recognition by the cell's machinery.
2. mRNA: This abbreviation stands for "messenger RNA". mRNA is a type of RNA that carries the genetic information from DNA to ribosomes, which are responsible for synthesizing proteins. It plays a vital role in the expression of genes by acting as a template for protein synthesis.
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