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.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A complementary strand of mRNA is formed.
A portion of the DNA double helix is unwound.
mRNA bonds with a ribosome in the cytoplasm.
A chain of amino acids is made by tRNA molecules.
Secondary and tertiary structures are formed by folding.

Answer 1

The process of protein synthesis involves several key steps. Here is the correct order of the steps you provided:

1. A portion of the DNA double helix is unwound.
2. A complementary strand of mRNA is formed.
3. mRNA bonds with a ribosome in the cytoplasm.
4. A chain of amino acids is made by tRNA molecules.
5. Secondary and tertiary structures are formed by folding.

This sequence outlines how DNA is transcribed into mRNA, which is then translated into a protein.