What is the Difference Between Coding and Noncoding DNA?

The main difference between coding and noncoding DNA lies in their roles in protein production. Here are the key differences between the two:

Coding DNA:

• Encodes for proteins and is often referred to as genes.
• Consists of exons, which are the protein-coding sequences.
• Transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA) and then translated into amino acid sequences, forming proteins.
• Accounts for approximately 1% of the total genome.
• Proteins encoded by coding DNA have regulatory, structural, and functional importance in the cell.

Noncoding DNA:

• Does not encode for proteins.
• Contains regulatory elements, introns, repeating sequences, pseudogenes, and telomeres.
• Forms around 99% of the genome.
• Although once thought to be "junk," it is now known that some noncoding DNA is integral to the function of cells, particularly in controlling gene activity.
• Examples of functional noncoding DNA include transfer RNAs (tRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs).

In summary, coding DNA provides instructions for producing proteins, while noncoding DNA does not. However, noncoding DNA still plays a crucial role in regulating gene activity and maintaining cellular functions.

Comparative Table: Coding vs Noncoding DNA

Here is a table comparing the differences between coding and noncoding DNA:

Coding DNA contains genes that encode for proteins, which are transcribed into mRNA and then translated into amino acid sequences. On the other hand, noncoding DNA does not encode for proteins but plays a role in controlling and regulating gene activity. Noncoding DNA can include introns within genes, satellite DNA, telomeres, and regulatory sequences such as promoters.