Difference Between DNA and mRNA | Definition, Structure, Function

December 4, 2017

6 min read

DNA and mRNA are the two types of most abundant nucleic acids in the cells. Both DNA and mRNA are made up of nucleotides. DNA is the genetic material of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. It is self-replicative and a new DNA is produced during DNA replication. A gene is a region (locus) or a specific nucleotide sequence on the DNA strand. mRNA is produced by the transcription of these genes. It contains information of an amino acid sequence of a functional protein. DNA comprises a complex, double-helix structure whereas mRNA is a mostly a single-stranded molecule. The main difference between DNA and mRNA is that DNA is the major biomolecule that is responsible for the continuity of life whereas mRNA is responsible for the protein synthesis.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is DNA
      – Definition, Structure, Function
2. What is mRNA
      – Definition, Structure, Function
3. What are the Similarities Between DNA and mRNA
      – Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between DNA and mRNA
      – Comparison of Key Differences

read more