Question

In what way(s) can mRNAs be processed?

a. By removing the introns (the noncoding regions) of the mRNAs
b. By splicing the exons (the coding regions) of the mRNAs in different ways
c. By adding caps and tails to the ends of the mRNAs
d. All of the above

Answer 1

mRNAs can be processed by removing introns, splicing exons in different ways, and adding caps and tails to the ends of the mRNAs.

Step-by-step explanation:

In eukaryotic cells, mRNAs can be processed in several ways:

• By removing the introns (noncoding regions) of the mRNAs through a process called splicing. The spliceosome, composed of proteins and other molecules, attaches to the mRNA and cuts out the non-coding regions (introns), leaving only the coding regions (exons).
• By splicing the exons of the mRNAs in different ways. This means that different combinations of exons can be joined together during splicing, resulting in different variations of the protein.
• By adding caps and tails to the ends of the mRNAs. A cap is added to the 5' end and a poly-A tail is added to the 3' end. These modifications are important for mRNA stability, export from the nucleus, and protection against degradation.