Students learn that cells manufacture proteins using DNA as the blueprint. They wonder about the protein synthesis process.

Question

How do cells use DNA to produce proteins? Place the steps below in order.

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Answer options with 5 options.

Answer 1

To explain how cells use DNA to produce proteins, the correct order of steps in the process of protein synthesis is as follows:

1. Transcription - The process where a specific segment of DNA is copied into mRNA (messenger RNA) by RNA polymerase.
2. RNA Processing - The mRNA undergoes modifications, including the addition of a 5' cap and a poly-A tail, and splicing to remove introns.
3. Translation Initiation - The processed mRNA is transported from the nucleus to the ribosome, where it binds to the ribosomal subunits.
4. Translation Elongation - tRNA molecules bring amino acids to the ribosome, matching their anticodons with the codons on the mRNA to elongate the protein chain.
5. Translation Termination - The process continues until a stop codon is reached on the mRNA, leading to the release of the newly synthesized protein.

Here’s how you can fill in the blanks:

1. Transcription
2. RNA Processing
3. Translation Initiation
4. Translation Elongation
5. Translation Termination