RNA Molecules

Definition

RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Its principal role is to act as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins.

Analogy

If DNA is like an architect's blueprint for constructing a building, then RNA is like the contractor who reads those blueprints and coordinates construction - it takes information from DNA and uses it to construct protein structures.

Related terms

mRNA (Messenger RNA): This type carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes where proteins are made - much like how an email carries information from sender to receiver.

tRNA (Transfer RNA): This type helps translate genetic code into protein structure - think of it as an interpreter translating one language into another during a meeting.

rRNA (Ribosomal RNA): This forms part of the ribosomes, the protein factories of a cell - like machinery in a factory that assembles products.