Transcription and translation

DNA is transcribed into mRNA using complementary bases, with uracil replacing thymine, and tRNA anticodons then read the codons.

A worked example

A template strand 3'-ACG TTA-5' transcribes to mRNA 5'-UGC AAU-3', which two tRNAs read as two codons and so two amino acids.

The mistake people actually make

RNA never contains thymine, so any answer with a T in it is wrong. Line the mRNA up antiparallel to the template, with 5' against 3'.

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