Transcription of DNA. These models are designed to show both structure and function of DNA! The DNA nucleotides pair with each other magnetically. (Magnets are in black.) The bright orange subunits are the mRNA nucleotides. In transcription, the single stranded messenger RNA (a copy of the DNA gene) is produced by the base paring rule. The mRNA then exits the nucleus through a pore in the nuclear membrane.

LEGO DNA Photo by Dan Armendariz

Find out more on the Science Builders website.

This activity is a facilitated school program for high school students at the MIT Museum.