* DNA is the blueprint: DNA contains the genetic instructions for building and maintaining an organism. However, DNA is located within the nucleus, and protein synthesis, the process of building proteins, takes place in the cytoplasm.
* mRNA as the intermediary: mRNA is a copy of a specific gene from DNA. It's like a messenger carrying the instructions from the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
* Translation: Ribosomes use the mRNA template to assemble amino acids into proteins. This process is called translation.
So, to summarize:
1. DNA in the nucleus: Holds the genetic instructions.
2. Transcription: A gene from DNA is copied into mRNA.
3. mRNA moves to the cytoplasm: Carries the genetic instructions to the ribosomes.
4. Translation: Ribosomes use the mRNA template to build proteins.
Let me know if you'd like more details about any of these steps!
