What is the primary function of mRNA in cells?

mRNA, or messenger RNA, plays a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis by encoding the amino acid sequence of a polypeptide. It serves as a template that carries genetic information from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized. The information contained in mRNA is transcribed from the DNA sequence and specifies the order in which amino acids are linked together in a growing polypeptide chain.

During translation, the ribosome reads the codons on the mRNA, which are sets of three nucleotides that correspond to specific amino acids. The ribosome then assembles the polypeptide according to the sequence dictated by the mRNA, resulting in the formation of proteins essential for various cellular functions. This process highlights the importance of mRNA in translating genetic information into functional proteins, enabling cells to perform their necessary tasks.