| Class of RNA | Cell type | Location of function in eukaryotic cells* | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) | Bacterial and eukaryotic | Cytoplasm | Structural and functional components of the ribosome |
| Messenger RNA (mRNA) | Bacterial and eukaryotic | Nucleus and cytoplasm | Carries genetic code for proteins |
| Transfer RNA (tRNA) | Bacterial and eukaryotic | Cytoplasm | Helps incorporate amino acids into polypeptide chain |
| Small nuclear RNA (snRNA) | Eukaryotic | Nucleus | Processing of pre- |
| Small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) | Eukaryotic | Nucleus | Processing and assembly of rRNA |
| MicroRNA (miRNA) | Eukaryotic | Cytoplasm | Inhibits translation of mRNA |
| Small interfering RNA (siRNA) | Eukaryotic | Cytoplasm | Triggers degradation of other RNA molecules |
| Piwi- |
Eukaryotic | Nucleus and cytoplasm | Suppresses the transcription of transposable elements in reproductive cells |
| Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) | Nucleus and cytoplasm | Variety of functions | |
| CRISPR RNA (crRNA) | Prokaryotic | — | Assists in destruction of foreign DNA |
|
*All eukaryotic RNAs are synthesized in the nucleus. |
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