Final answer:
The capping of a mature mRNA is a three-step process that occurs while the pre-mRNA is being synthesized. It involves removing a phosphate from the 5' end, attaching a guanosine monophosphate (GMP) to the 5' end, and adding a methyl group to the guanine base. This process protects the mRNA and aids in translation initiation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 5' capping of mature mRNA is a three-step process that occurs while the pre-mRNA is still being synthesized. First, an enzyme removes a phosphate from the 5' end. Then, a guanosine monophosphate (GMP) is attached to the 5' end by a phosphate linkage. Finally, a methyl group is attached to a nitrogen at position 7 in the guanine base. This process helps protect the mRNA from degradation and aids in the initiation of translation by ribosomes.