In prokaryotes, transcription results directly in the production of mRNA
In prokaryotic cells, transcription produces a finished mRNA molecule straight away. No editing steps happen before the mRNA is used to make a protein.
Real World
In E. coli bacteria, ribosomes begin translating an mRNA molecule before transcription has even finished — a process called coupled transcription-translation — which is only possible because there is no nuclear membrane separating the two processes.
Exam Focus
In 'compare' questions, explicitly state prokaryotic mRNA requires no splicing whereas eukaryotic pre-mRNA must be processed — this contrast scores marks.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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