DNA → RNA → Protein
Here's a breakdown:
* DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid): This is the genetic blueprint, containing the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. It resides in the nucleus of cells.
* Transcription: The process of copying the DNA sequence into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. This occurs in the nucleus.
* mRNA: This molecule carries the genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes, where protein synthesis takes place.
* Translation: The process of using the mRNA code to build a protein. This occurs in the ribosomes.
* Protein: The functional molecule that carries out a specific task in the cell.
In summary: DNA provides the instructions, which are transcribed into mRNA, and the mRNA is then translated into a protein. This is the central dogma of molecular biology.