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| 1. CENTRAL DOGMA CONCEPT |
| The central dogma of molecular biology is the concept which governs the flow of biological information from gene to protein. It includes the major steps of DNA Replication, Transcription and Translation. Replication of DNA allows DNA duplication and ensures that a copy of entire chromosome complement is delivered to each of the resulting daughter cells after cell division. This is followed by a complexly controlled, enzyme-dependent step wherein the DNA is transcribed into mRNA. The mRNA strand thus generated is complementary to the DNA strand. The major difference between the two nucleic acids is that the backbone of RNA contains a Ribose sugar instead of the Deoxyribose sugar present in DNA. Besides, the nitrogenous base Thymine is replaced by Uracil in case of RNA. The RNA thus formed acts as a messenger of genetic information and is translocated from the nucleus (the site of transcription) to the the cytoplasm. It is in the cytoplasm where the actual process of Translation or converting the genetic information into polypeptide takes place. The processes of transcription and translation are highly complex, involving multiple components and are highly regulated. A departure from the normal flow of these steps, consequently affects further downstream processes. |
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