What is produced when mRNA is converted to complementary DNA?

Prepare for the DNA Technology Test with our comprehensive quiz. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

What is produced when mRNA is converted to complementary DNA?

Explanation:
Reverse transcription is the process at work: an RNA template (mRNA) is copied into DNA by reverse transcriptase. The resulting DNA strand is complementary to the mRNA sequence, producing complementary DNA, or cDNA. Because it derives from processed mRNA, cDNA reflects only the expressed exons and generally lacks introns, which is why it’s widely used for cloning and gene expression studies. So, when mRNA is converted to complementary DNA, the product is cDNA. Genomic DNA would copy the entire gene with introns, not just the mRNA sequence; messenger RNA is the template in this process, not the product; transfer RNA is a different RNA type altogether.

Reverse transcription is the process at work: an RNA template (mRNA) is copied into DNA by reverse transcriptase. The resulting DNA strand is complementary to the mRNA sequence, producing complementary DNA, or cDNA. Because it derives from processed mRNA, cDNA reflects only the expressed exons and generally lacks introns, which is why it’s widely used for cloning and gene expression studies. So, when mRNA is converted to complementary DNA, the product is cDNA. Genomic DNA would copy the entire gene with introns, not just the mRNA sequence; messenger RNA is the template in this process, not the product; transfer RNA is a different RNA type altogether.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy