Introns and Exons

Definition

Introns are non-coding sequences within genes that are removed during RNA processing, while exons are coding sequences that remain in the mature mRNA and code for proteins.

Analogy

Imagine you're editing a film. The introns are like unnecessary scenes or bloopers which don't contribute to your story - you cut them out. The exons, on the other hand, are like important scenes which drive your plot forward - you keep these in your final movie.

Related terms

Splicing: The process by which introns are removed from pre-mRNA and exons are joined together to form mature mRNA.

Gene Expression: The process by which information from a gene is used to create functional products like proteins.

Genome: All of an organism's genetic material.