What is the Difference Between hnRNA and mRNA?

RNA synthesis takes place in the nucleus in eukaryotes. However, when RNA is formed, it is transferred from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. The physiological environment in the nucleus is quite different than than of the cytoplasm. This physiological difference may harm newly formed RNA in the cytoplasm. In order to prevent RNA from any damage, it is processed first and then transferred to the cytoplasm.

A newly formed RNA before processing is called heterogenous RNA (hnRNA) and RNA after processing is called mRNA (messenger RNA). Processing involves capping and tailing of RNA. Capping is done by adding 5-methyl guanosine, and tailing is done by adding polyA to the 3'-OH using poly A polymerase enzyme.


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