Explain how a protein is made, limited to: • the gene coding for the protein remains in the nucleus • messenger RNA (mRNA) is a copy of a gene • mRNA molecules are made in the nucleus and move to the cytoplasm • the mRNA passes through ribosomes • the ribosome assembles amino acids into protein molecules • the specific sequence of amino acids is determined by the sequence of bases in the mRNA (knowledge of the details of transcription or translation is not required)

The process of protein synthesis involves several key steps that take place in different parts of the cell. Here’s a simplified overview of how a protein is made, focusing on the essential components:

1. Gene Location

• Gene in the Nucleus: The gene that codes for a specific protein remains in the nucleus of the cell. This gene contains the necessary instructions for synthesizing the protein.

2. Messenger RNA (mRNA) Production

• Copying the Gene: A copy of the gene is made in the form of messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA serves as a portable version of the genetic information contained in the DNA.
• mRNA Formation: mRNA molecules are synthesized in the nucleus, where they are transcribed from the DNA template.

3. Movement to the Cytoplasm

• Transporting mRNA: Once synthesized, the mRNA molecule exits the nucleus and moves into the cytoplasm, where protein synthesis occurs.

4. Ribosome Interaction

• Passing Through Ribosomes: The mRNA then passes through ribosomes, which are cellular structures responsible for assembling proteins. Ribosomes read the sequence of bases in the mRNA to determine which amino acids to link together.

5. Assembling Amino Acids

• Protein Assembly: The ribosome assembles amino acids into a polypeptide chain, forming a protein molecule. Each amino acid is added according to the sequence specified by the mRNA.

6. Sequence Determination

• Amino Acid Sequence: The specific sequence of amino acids in the resulting protein is determined by the sequence of bases in the mRNA. Each set of three bases (codon) corresponds to a specific amino acid.