RRNA GENE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "rRNA gene" refers to a segment of DNA responsible for the production of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) molecules within the cells of living organisms. Ribosomal RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, specifically by serving as a structural and functional component of ribosomes, which are responsible for the assembly of amino acids into proteins.
rRNA genes generally occur in multiple copies within a genome, with each copy being transcribed into a precursor molecule called pre-rRNA. This pre-rRNA is then processed and spliced to yield mature and functional rRNA molecules. The number of rRNA gene copies varies among different organisms, and this variation can have significant implications for the efficiency and speed of protein synthesis.
In humans, for instance, the rRNA gene exists as a tandem array of hundreds of copies that are repeated in clusters called nucleolar organizer regions (NORs). These NORs are usually located on the acrocentric chromosomes. Other organisms, such as bacteria, may possess a single rRNA operon containing the rRNA gene along with additional sequences required for its expression.
The study of rRNA genes has become a vital aspect of molecular biology and genetics, as they provide essential information about the evolutionary relationships and genetic diversity among organisms. Comparing the sequences of rRNA genes between different species allows scientists to construct phylogenetic trees and infer evolutionary links. Additionally, variations in rRNA gene sequences can serve as markers for identifying and classifying different strains or species.
Common Misspellings for RRNA GENE
- drna gene
- frna gene
- trna gene
- 5rna gene
- 4rna gene
- rena gene
- rdna gene
- rfna gene
- rtna gene
- r5na gene
- r4na gene
- rrma gene
- rrja gene
- rrha gene
- rrnz gene
- rrns gene
- rrnw gene
- rrnq gene
- rrna fene
- rrna vene
Etymology of RRNA GENE
The term "rRNA gene" is composed of two parts: "rRNA" and "gene".
1. rRNA: The abbreviation "rRNA" stands for ribosomal RNA. Ribosomal RNA is a type of RNA molecule that is a vital component of the ribosome, which is involved in protein synthesis. The "r" in rRNA refers to "ribosomal" to distinguish it from other types of RNA.
2. Gene: The word "gene" comes from the Greek word "genos" meaning "race" or "family". It was first used in the context of genetics by the Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in the early 20th century to describe the hereditary unit responsible for the transmission of traits.
Therefore, the term "rRNA gene" refers to the gene that encodes ribosomal RNA. It specifically refers to the specific DNA sequence that produces ribosomal RNA molecules.
