Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

What is the function of mRNA?

1. To store DNA

2. To carry RNA codons for transcription

3. To translate proteins

4. To transport amino acids

The correct answer is: To carry RNA codons for transcription

The function of mRNA, or messenger RNA, is indeed to carry RNA codons that are necessary for the process of transcription and translation. mRNA is synthesized from DNA during transcription and serves as a template for translating the genetic code into a specific sequence of amino acids during protein synthesis. During this process, mRNA codons correspond to specific amino acids, which are then assembled to form proteins. This role is crucial because it allows the genetic information stored in DNA to be expressed in functional proteins, which are essential for numerous cellular processes. The other potential answers pertain to functions that are not accurate representations of mRNA's role. Storing DNA is a function associated with the DNA molecule itself, while translating proteins refers to the action carried out by ribosomes with the help of tRNA and not mRNA directly. Transporting amino acids is primarily the role of transfer RNA (tRNA), which brings the appropriate amino acids during translation. Thus, the primary function of mRNA is accurately reflected in the choice relating to carrying RNA codons for transcription, which is a foundational step in the process of making proteins from genetic information.