What is transcription in genetics?

Transcription in genetics refers specifically to the process of copying a segment of DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA). This process is a crucial step in gene expression where the information encoded in the DNA is transcribed to produce mRNA, which then serves as a template for protein synthesis during the next stage known as translation.

During transcription, the enzyme RNA polymerase binds to a specific region of the DNA and unwinds the double helix, allowing it to read the nucleotide sequence of the DNA strand. The RNA polymerase then synthesizes a single strand of mRNA by adding complementary RNA nucleotides based on the DNA template. This mRNA strand carries the genetic information from the nucleus to the cytoplasm where it can be translated into a protein.

The other options describe different biological processes that do not pertain to transcription. Converting mRNA into protein is part of translation, repairing damaged DNA involves a process of DNA repair mechanisms, and translating RNA into DNA does not occur in standard cellular processes, as RNA is usually translated into protein rather than the reverse.