Template Strand vs. Coding Strand — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 25, 2023
The Template Strand of DNA is used as a template for RNA synthesis, whereas the Coding Strand has the same sequence as the transcribed RNA (except T for U).
Difference Between Template Strand and Coding Strand
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Within the DNA double helix, the Template Strand serves as the pattern for synthesizing messenger RNA (mRNA). In contrast, the Coding Strand, while not directly involved in transcription, mirrors the sequence of the resultant mRNA, barring the substitution of thymine (T) for uracil (U).
It's the Template Strand that the RNA polymerase reads during the process of transcription. On the other hand, the Coding Strand, due to its sequence similarity with mRNA, is sometimes termed the sense strand.
While the Template Strand provides the necessary instructions to construct a specific protein, the Coding Strand remains passive during this process. However, the sequence information on the Coding Strand remains essential for DNA replication and repair.
The sequences on the Template Strand and Coding Strand are complementary. This means that if the Template Strand has a sequence like 5'-ATGC-3', the Coding Strand would read 3'-TACG-5' (and the resultant mRNA would be 5'-AUGC-3').
In essence, while both the Template Strand and Coding Strand play integral roles in genetics and cellular function, their direct roles differ: the Template Strand actively partakes in guiding RNA synthesis, while the Coding Strand serves more as a reference.
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Comparison Chart
Role in Transcription
Serves as the pattern for mRNA synthesis
Sequence mirrors mRNA, but not directly used
Sequence Similarity
Complementary to the mRNA
Matches mRNA sequence (T for U)
Interaction with RNA Polymerase
Directly read by RNA polymerase
Not actively read
Terminology
Also known as the antisense strand
Often termed the sense strand
Function
Directly guides RNA synthesis
Acts as a reference; involved in DNA replication and repair
Compare with Definitions
Template Strand
The DNA strand complementary to the resulting mRNA.
A thymine on the Template Strand will lead to the incorporation of adenine in the mRNA.
Coding Strand
The DNA strand with a sequence that mirrors the transcribed RNA (except T for U).
If the mRNA sequence is 5'-AUGC-3', the Coding Strand of the DNA will be 5'-ATGC-3'.
Template Strand
The strand opposite to the one mirroring the mRNA sequence.
When studying gene sequences, scientists examine the Template Strand to determine the resulting protein sequence.
Coding Strand
Often termed the sense strand of DNA.
The Coding Strand is so named because its sequence makes sense in relation to the protein-coding sequence.
Template Strand
The DNA strand used as a blueprint for RNA synthesis.
During transcription, the RNA polymerase binds to the Template Strand to produce mRNA.
Coding Strand
The DNA strand not used as a template for transcription but essential for replication.
Although not directly involved in RNA synthesis, mutations on the Coding Strand can impact genetic information.
Template Strand
The sequence that RNA polymerase reads during transcription.
If the Template Strand sequence is 5'-ATGC-3', the mRNA produced will be 5'-AUGC-3'.
Coding Strand
The strand opposite to the template in the DNA double helix.
When DNA unzips for transcription, the Coding Strand remains unutilized.
Template Strand
The antisense strand of DNA that guides protein construction.
Specific sequences on the Template Strand dictate the order of amino acids in a protein.
Coding Strand
The DNA sequence that reflects the protein-coding information.
Biologists often refer to the Coding Strand when predicting the amino acid sequence of a protein from DNA.
Common Curiosities
Why is the Coding Strand also called the sense strand?
Because its sequence makes "sense" or matches the protein-coding sequence, barring T for U.
Is the Template Strand the same as the antisense strand?
Yes, the Template Strand is often termed the antisense strand.
Can mutations on the Coding Strand affect genetics?
Yes, because the Coding Strand's sequence is crucial for DNA replication and repair.
Do the sequences of the Template and Coding Strands differ significantly?
Yes, they're complementary; if one has adenine (A), the other will have thymine (T), and vice versa.
How does the Coding Strand differ in transcription?
While its sequence mirrors the resultant mRNA, it isn't directly used for RNA synthesis.
Which strand does the RNA polymerase read?
RNA polymerase reads the Template Strand.
Does the Coding Strand play a role in protein synthesis?
Not directly; it's the Template Strand that guides mRNA synthesis for protein production.
Why is it essential to differentiate between Template and Coding Strands?
Understanding the distinction is crucial for studies in genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnological applications.
What's the relationship between the Template Strand and resultant mRNA?
The mRNA sequence is complementary to the Template Strand.
Which strand contains thymine that corresponds to uracil in mRNA?
Both strands contain thymine, but it's the Template Strand's thymine that corresponds to mRNA's uracil.
What's the main function of the Template Strand?
It serves as the pattern for RNA synthesis during transcription.
How is the Template Strand determined for a given gene?
It's the strand that's read by RNA polymerase to produce mRNA for that specific gene.
Is it accurate to say the Coding Strand "codes" for proteins?
Indirectly; while it reflects the protein-coding sequence, it's the Template Strand that actively guides protein synthesis.
In terms of functionality, can both strands serve as a template?
In different genes or regions, either strand can serve as the Template Strand, but for a specific gene, only one acts as the template.
If the Coding Strand has a sequence 5'-ATGC-3', what's the mRNA sequence?
The mRNA sequence would be 5'-AUGC-3'.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
