VCAC: Molecular Processes: mRNA Processing: Advanced Look: Capping

The first step in processing pre-mRNA is to add a cap to its 5' end. Clicking on each of the thumbnail images will bring up a larger, labeled version of the described scene.

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	Before pre-mRNA can be processed it must first be transcribed by RNA polymerase during transcription.
	The first step in processing pre-mRNA occurs during transcription. While still being transcribed, a methylated cap is added to the 5' end of the growing strand of pre-mRNA.
	Transcription continues during and after the cap has been added.
	When transcription is completed, the capped pre-mRNA is released from the RNA polymerase complex.

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