Structure of a bacterial mRNA transcript: Which elements are typically present in a mature prokaryotic mRNA derived from a single gene (considering coding region and untranslated ends)?

Introduction / Context:
Bacterial messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the information that ribosomes translate into protein. Recognizing the key landmarks on mRNA helps explain how translation begins, how it ends, and how the transcript itself is released from RNA polymerase during transcription.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Mature bacterial mRNA usually includes untranslated regions flanking the coding sequence.
• Translation starts at a start codon within the coding region and ends at a stop codon.
• Intrinsic (rho-independent) termination encodes a GC-rich palindromic segment followed by U residues that forms a hairpin in the RNA.

Concept / Approach:
The coding region of mRNA begins with a start codon (commonly AUG) and ends with a stop codon (UAA, UAG, or UGA). Upstream, a ribosome-binding site aids initiation. Downstream, sequences transcribed from a DNA terminator can form RNA structures (such as a hairpin followed by a uridine tract) that destabilize the transcription complex, resulting in release of the mRNA. Thus, features corresponding to start, stop, and termination are represented within or on the mRNA transcript.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Check for translation initiation: a start codon must be present in the coding sequence. Check for translation termination: a stop codon defines the end of the open reading frame. Check for transcription termination: sequences that give rise to a terminator hairpin are part of the RNA at its 3' end. Conclude that all listed elements can be found on the mature mRNA.

Verification / Alternative check:
Mapping experiments show that purified bacterial mRNAs contain 5' UTR, start codon, coding region, stop codon, 3' UTR, and, in intrinsic termination, a terminal hairpin-uridine tract region derived from the DNA terminator.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Any single element alone is incomplete; true mRNA typically contains all functional landmarks.
• None of these: Contradicted by standard prokaryotic gene architecture.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the DNA terminator with the resulting RNA structure; while the terminator is encoded in DNA, its sequence is transcribed and produces an RNA hairpin that functions in termination.

Final Answer:
All of these.