Intermediate · 2 min
From genetic information to protein
Transcription produces an RNA copy from a DNA template. Translation uses the sequence of a messenger RNA to assemble a chain of amino acids at a ribosome. These steps connect genetic information to protein production. For a protein-coding gene, changing the DNA sequence can change the RNA sequence and sometimes the amino-acid sequence. Not every change alters the protein, because multiple codons can specify the same amino acid. RNA is a working information molecule, not a protein.
Visual explanation
From a gene to a protein
- DNA sequence
- Transcription produces RNA
- Translation builds a chain of amino acids
This is a simplified information pathway for a protein-coding gene. Cells regulate each stage.
Simplified diagram. Read the explanation for the conditions and limits.