Messenger RNA (mRNA) serves as the intermediary molecule that carries genetic information from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm, where protein synthesis occurs. During translation, the nucleotide sequence of mRNA dictates the order in which amino acids are assembled into a polypeptide chain. Each three-nucleotide codon on the mRNA molecule corresponds to a specific amino acid or a termination signal, guiding the ribosome to incorporate the correct amino acid into the growing protein.
The accurate transmission of genetic information via this molecule is crucial for cellular function. Errors in mRNA sequence or its improper decoding can lead to the production of non-functional proteins, potentially disrupting cellular processes and causing disease. The discovery of mRNA and its role in protein synthesis represented a pivotal moment in molecular biology, providing a fundamental understanding of gene expression and paving the way for advancements in fields such as genetic engineering and personalized medicine.