What does Messenger RNA (mRNA) do?

Messenger RNA (mRNA) plays a crucial role in the process of gene expression by carrying the genetic code from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. When a gene is expressed, the DNA sequence is transcribed into mRNA in the nucleus. This mRNA strand then travels out of the nucleus and into the cytoplasm, where it serves as a template for protein synthesis during translation.

In the cytoplasm, ribosomes read the sequence of the mRNA and translate it into a specific sequence of amino acids, ultimately forming a protein. Thus, mRNA is essential for conveying the genetic information necessary for the synthesis of proteins, which are vital for numerous cellular functions.

Other options serve different functions in the cell; for example, amino acids are transported by transfer RNA (tRNA), ribosomes themselves are made up of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins, and gene expression regulation is typically managed by several factors, including regulatory proteins and other RNA molecules.