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What is RNA?

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Quick answer

RNA (ribonucleic acid) is a molecule that carries and acts on the genetic instructions stored in DNA. Its best-known form, messenger RNA, copies a gene's code and carries it to the cell's machinery to build proteins. RNA is similar to DNA but single-stranded, and it uses the base uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).

Key things to understand

  1. RNA is similar to DNA but single-stranded, and it uses the base uracil (U) instead of thymine (T).
  2. Messenger RNA (mRNA) copies a gene and carries the instructions out of the nucleus.
  3. Ribosomes read the mRNA to assemble proteins, the workhorses of the cell.
  4. Other RNAs help build proteins and regulate genes, and some viruses use RNA as their genome.
  5. mRNA vaccines use lab-made RNA to teach cells to make a harmless piece of a virus.

People also ask

What's the difference between DNA and RNA?
DNA is the long-term, double-stranded store of genetic information; RNA is a shorter-lived, usually single-stranded working copy that carries out tasks like building proteins.
How do mRNA vaccines work?
They deliver lab-made messenger RNA that instructs your cells to build a harmless piece of a virus, training your immune system to recognize the real thing.
Can RNA store genetic information like DNA?
Yes — some viruses, such as influenza and coronaviruses, use RNA as their genetic material instead of DNA.