mRNA and tRNA are two different types of RNAs (ribonucleic acids). There are several differences between mRNA and tRNA, from their structure to the functions they perform.
Basis of differentiation | mRNA | tRNA |
Definition | Is a type of RNA that acts as a messenger between genes and proteins | Is a type of RNA that transfers specific amino acids into the ribosome for coding during protein synthesis |
Full name | Messenger RNA | Transfer RNA |
Structure | Single-stranded, unfolded linear molecule | 3 dimensional complex structure composed of multiple hairpin loops , an acceptor arm, and a small variable loop |
Occurrence | Synthesized in the nucleus and functions in the nucleus and cytoplasm | Occurs and functions in the cytoplasm |
Size | Varies depending on the coding sequence of the gene | About 76 to 90 nucleotides in length |
Quantity in a cell | A cell generally has a smaller amount of mRNA as compared to tRNA | A cell has a larger amount of tRNA than mRNA |
Presence of codon/anticodon | Carries a codon sequence that is complementary to the codon sequence of the gene – does not have an anticodon | Carries an anticodon that is complementary to the codon on the mRNA |
Presence of sequence terminating nucleotides | Absent | Has CCA trinucleotides at one end of the molecule |
Function | Serves as the messenger between genes and proteins, carrying genetic information contained in DNA to be used as a template for synthesizing protein | Carries specific amino acid into the ribosome for protein synthesis |
Interaction with amino acids | Does not attach to amino acids during protein synthesis | Carries a specific amino acid by attaching to its acceptor arm |
Fate after completing its function | Is destroyed after transcription | Is reactivated by attaching to a second amino acid specific to it after releasing its first amino acid during translation |