Transcription and Translation · USMLE Step 1

Which process is responsible for stabilizing mature eukaryotic mRNA and aiding its export from the nucleus?

  1. The 5′ cap is added and then quickly removed before export
  2. Splicing of introns acting as the sole stabilizing step
  3. Addition of the 5′ cap together with the 3′ poly-A tail
  4. Charging of tRNAs with amino acids for use in translation
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Correct answer: Addition of the 5′ cap together with the 3′ poly-A tail

Both the 5′ cap and the 3′ poly-A tail protect mature mRNA from degradation and promote its export from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Splicing and tRNA charging do not perform this role, and the cap is retained, not removed.

Difficulty: Medium Question 20 of 22

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