Final answer:
Polycistronic mRNA is a single mRNA molecule commonly produced during prokaryotic transcription that carries information encoding multiple polypeptides. Genes encoding proteins of related functions are frequently transcribed under the control of a single promoter in prokaryotes, resulting in the formation of a polycistronic mRNA molecule that encodes multiple polypeptides. During translation, polysomes, which are multiple ribosomes translating an mRNA molecule at the same time, can be observed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polycistronic mRNA is a single mRNA molecule commonly produced during prokaryotic transcription that carries information encoding multiple polypeptides. Genes encoding proteins of related functions are frequently transcribed under the control of a single promoter in prokaryotes, resulting in the formation of a polycistronic mRNA molecule that encodes multiple polypeptides.
In eukaryotes, most mRNA molecules are monocistronic, meaning they code for a single polypeptide chain. However, in prokaryotes, a single mRNA molecule can code either for one polypeptide chain (monocistronic) or for more than one polypeptide chain (polycistronic).
During translation, polysomes, which are multiple ribosomes translating an mRNA molecule at the same time, can be observed. Polysomes ensure a high rate of protein synthesis, maintaining a steady supply of proteins in the cell.
Polycistronic mRNA refers to a single mRNA molecule in prokaryotes that encodes for multiple polypeptides, in contrast to eukaryotic monocistronic mRNA which codes for a single polypeptide chain. Multiple ribosomes can translate a polycistronic mRNA concurrently in a polyribosome, promoting rapid protein synthesis.
Polycistronic mRNA is a type of mRNA found primarily in prokaryotic cells. It is a single mRNA molecule produced during transcription that can encode multiple polypeptides. This contrasts with eukaryotic cells, where mRNA is typically monocistronic, meaning one mRNA molecule codes for just one polypeptide chain. In prokaryotes, the genes encoding proteins of related functions are often controlled by a single promoter, which leads to the production of a polycistronic mRNA that can then be translated into multiple proteins.
During the translation process in prokaryotes, a structure called a polyribosome or polysome forms when multiple ribosomes attach to a single mRNA molecule and translate it simultaneously. This efficient system allows prokaryotes to produce high concentrations of proteins rapidly, which is vital for their survival and functionality.
Eukaryotic mRNA, on the other hand, goes through additional processing steps making it more stable than its prokaryotic counterpart, with a longer lifespan—lasting hours instead of minutes. This difference underlines the fundamental distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic gene expression.