RNA metabolism refers to the processes involved in the synthesis, modification, and degradation of RNA molecules within a cell. This includes transcription, where DNA is used as a template to create messenger RNA (mRNA), and the subsequent processing of pre-mRNA into mature mRNA through splicing and capping. Additionally, RNA metabolism encompasses the regulation of RNA stability and turnover, which is crucial for controlling gene expression. Other types of RNA, such as ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA), also play essential roles in protein synthesis and cellular function, highlighting the importance of RNA in biological systems.