RNA, complex compound of high molecular weight that functions in cellular protein synthesis and replaces DNA as a carrier of genetic codes in some viruses. RNA consists of ribose nucleotides and the nitrogenous bases adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil.

Learn about RNA, a versatile molecule that performs many roles in the cell, from carrying the instructions to make proteins to regulating genes. Find out how RNA is different from DNA, how it is made, how it can make proteins, and what are the different types of RNA.

The RNA molecule can have a variety of lengths and structures. An RNA virus uses RNA instead of DNA as its genetic material and can cause many human diseases. Transcription is the process of RNA formation from DNA, and translation is the process of protein synthesis from RNA.

Learn the definition, structure and functions of RNA, a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Find out how different types of RNA, such as mRNA, rRNA and tRNA, are involved in gene expression and protein synthesis.

An RNA strand can undergo significant intramolecular base pairing to take on a three-dimensional structure. There are three main types of RNA, all involved in protein synthesis. Messenger RNA (mRNA) serves as the intermediary between DNA and the synthesis of protein products during translation.