Gene Expression Basics
Your genotype (the actual DNA sequences in your genes) determines your phenotype (the traits you can see, like dark or light hair). But here's the thing - your DNA doesn't directly create these traits. Instead, it goes through a two-step process called protein synthesis.
Transcription happens first, where your DNA gets copied into a messenger molecule called mRNA. Then comes translation, where that mRNA gets turned into actual proteins at structures called ribosomes.
There are three key types of RNA you need to know: mRNA (messenger RNA) carries the genetic code from nucleus to ribosome, tRNA (transfer RNA) brings specific amino acids to build proteins, and rRNA (ribosomal RNA) forms the ribosome itself. Think of them as different workers in a protein factory - each has a specific job but they all work together.
Quick Tip: Remember that RNA uses uracil (U) instead of thymine (T), and it's single-stranded unlike DNA's double helix!