Question

Key steps in RNA splicing are performed by specialized RNA molecules known as?

Answer 1

RNA splicing is performed by specialized RNA molecules called spliceosomes. Spliceosomes are ribonucleoprotein complexes composed of proteins and small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). They recognize specific sequences at the ends of introns and remove them, bringing the exons together for ligation.

Step-by-step explanation:

RNA splicing, the process of removing introns and reconnecting exons in a pre-mRNA, is performed by specialized RNA molecules known as spliceosomes. Spliceosomes are ribonucleoprotein complexes composed of proteins and RNA molecules called small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). These spliceosomes recognize specific sequences at the 5' and 3' ends of the intron. They cut the pre-mRNA at the two points and bring the exons together for ligation, resulting in the formation of mature mRNA.