Here's a breakdown of the flow:
1. DNA: Contains the genetic code for building proteins.
2. Transcription: DNA is transcribed into mRNA. This means the DNA sequence is copied into a complementary mRNA sequence.
3. mRNA: Carries the genetic code from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
4. Translation: The mRNA sequence is translated into a chain of amino acids (a polypeptide), which then folds into a functional protein.
So, mRNA is the crucial intermediary that bridges the gap between DNA and protein synthesis.