RNA transcripts size

[plexus0208]

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
After isolating the same mRNA transcripts of the same gene, why are some transcripts bigger than others?

2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution

[Ygggdrasil]

Consider what happens to mRNAs after they are initially synthesized.

[plexus0208]

polyA tail?

[Ygggdrasil]

Yes, the poly(A) tails can be of differing length (e.g. some poly(A) tails may have undergone more degradation than others). The mRNAs can also be alternatively spliced resulting in differently sized transcripts.