Here's a breakdown of how it works:
* DNA provides the blueprint: The genetic instructions for building a protein are encoded in a molecule of DNA. This code is transcribed into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule.
* mRNA carries the message: The mRNA molecule travels from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where ribosomes are located.
* Ribosomes translate the message: Ribosomes are complex structures made of RNA and protein. They read the code on the mRNA molecule and use it to assemble amino acids into a specific sequence, forming a protein.
* Amino acids are the building blocks: Amino acids are small molecules that come together to form proteins. There are 20 different amino acids that are used to build proteins.
* tRNA delivers the amino acids: Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules bring the correct amino acids to the ribosome, matching them to the code on the mRNA.
So, while DNA holds the instructions and mRNA carries the message, it's the ribosomes that actually put the protein together, piece by piece.
