In an experiment designed to analyze the mRNAs present in a cell at a given time in the life cycle, it was found that about 50% of the mRNAs are of one type, less than 20% represent eight other mRNAs, and the rest consist of several thousand different mRNAs. What does this information indicate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the majority of mRNAs present in the cell are represented by several thousand different types suggests that these genes are likely involved in basic, "housekeeping" functions that are common to many cell types. The presence of eight other mRNAs at an intermediate level suggests that these genes may be more specific to this cell type or its stage of development, but their representation is still relatively low compared to the dominant mRNA type.

In an Experiment Designed to Analyze the MRNAs Present in a Cell