RNA
Ribonucleic acid; carries genetic information from DNA; mRNA, tRNA, rRNA essential for protein synthesis.
RNA (ribonucleic acid) is a nucleic acid polymer essential for gene expression.
Unlike DNA, RNA is typically single-stranded, uses ribose sugar, and contains uracil instead of thymine.
Major types
mRNA (messenger RNA
carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes)
tRNA (transfer RNA
brings amino acids for protein synthesis)
rRNA (ribosomal RNA
structural and catalytic component of ribosomes)
various regulatory RNAs (miRNA
siRNA
lncRNA).
RNA synthesis (transcription) requires ribonucleotides made from ribose-5-phosphate, amino acids, and one-carbon units from folate.
B vitamins are essential for RNA metabolism: B12 and folate for nucleotide synthesis, B6 for amino acid metabolism.
Many viruses use RNA as their genetic material.
Metabolic Connections
RNA connects to 7 other pathways.
B Vitamins
B12
B12 (via folate) supports nucleotide synthesis for RNA
Cobalamin - essential for methylation, nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
Folate
Folate is essential for nucleotide synthesis for RNA
Vitamin B9 - essential for DNA synthesis, methylation, and cell division. Critical during pregnancy for neural tube development.
Biomolecules
Protein
mRNA carries the code that ribosomes translate into protein
Macromolecule composed of amino acids; essential for structure, enzymes, signaling, transport, and immunity.
Protein
mRNA carries the code and tRNA delivers amino acids for protein synthesis
Macromolecule composed of amino acids; essential for structure, enzymes, signaling, transport, and immunity.
