* DNA contains the genetic code: DNA holds the instructions for building and maintaining an organism. These instructions are encoded in the sequence of its nucleotides (A, T, C, G).
* Transcription: The first step of protein synthesis is transcription. Here, a segment of DNA (a gene) is copied into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. The mRNA carries the genetic code from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
* Translation: The mRNA molecule then interacts with ribosomes, which are the protein-making machinery of the cell. The mRNA sequence is translated into a chain of amino acids, following the genetic code. This chain of amino acids folds into a specific protein.
In summary: DNA provides the blueprint (the genetic code), which is transcribed into mRNA and then translated into a protein. Therefore, DNA directly controls protein synthesis.
