How does mRNA leave the nucleus?

1 Answer
Jun 29, 2017

Before mRNA passes through pores in the nuclear membrane, it must undergo processing.

Explanation:

Messenger RNA, or mRNA, leaves the nucleus through pores in the nuclear membrane. These pores control the passage of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.

Before the mRNA arrives in the cytoplasm, however, it must be processed. mRNA processing occurs only in eukaryotes.

During mRNA processing, the introns (non-coding regions) of the pre-mRNA are removed, and the exons (the coding regions) are spliced together.

Additionally, a 5' cap and a 3' poly A tail are added to the pre-mRNA. The 5' cap prevents the mRNA from being degraded, while the poly A tail (a chain of adenine nucleotides) increases the stability of the molecule.

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