Small nuclear

Definition

Small nuclear RNA (snRNA) molecules are a component of the spliceosome, which is responsible for splicing pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells. They play a critical role in the processing and modification of RNA transcripts during gene expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. snRNAs are typically found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.
2. They are essential for the removal of introns from pre-mRNA.
3. snRNAs combine with proteins to form small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs).
4. The most well-known snRNAs include U1, U2, U4, U5, and U6.
5. Mutations or malfunctions in snRNA components can lead to diseases such as spinal muscular atrophy.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of small nuclear RNA (snRNA) in eukaryotic cells?
• Name at least two specific types of snRNAs involved in the spliceosome.
• How do snRNAs contribute to the accuracy of mRNA splicing?

Related terms

Spliceosome: A complex of snRNAs and proteins that removes introns from pre-mRNA.

Pre-mRNA: The initial transcript from a protein-coding gene that contains both exons and introns.

Introns:

Non-coding sequences in a gene that are removed during RNA splicing.