Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded molecule that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It carries genetic information from DNA in the cell's nucleus to the cytoplasm, where ribosomes read the mRNA sequence to assemble amino acids into proteins according to the genetic code
. Specifically, mRNA acts as a template that encodes the sequence of amino acids for a particular protein. The ribosomes translate the mRNA codons-groups of three nucleotides-into corresponding amino acids, linking them into a growing protein chain
. In the context of mRNA vaccines, mRNA delivers instructions to cells to produce a specific protein from a pathogen (such as the spike protein of the coronavirus). This protein triggers the immune system to recognize and respond to the pathogen without exposure to the actual virus, training the immune system for future defense
. After the protein is made, the mRNA is quickly broken down and does not alter the cell’s DNA
. In summary, mRNA's primary function is to convey the genetic instructions from DNA to the cell's protein-making machinery, enabling the production of proteins essential for cellular function and immune responses.
