Open Reading frame (ORF)
Open reading frame (ORF)
A sequence that can be read in one codon frame without an in-frame stop; a long ORF can suggest protein-coding potential but does not prove expression.
Overview
EXPLORE BY LEVELA ribosome reads a protein-coding RNA three letters at a time. An open reading frame is a stretch that can be read in one of these three-letter patterns without hitting a stop signal too soon. A long ORF is a clue, but scientists need evidence to show that a cell actually makes the protein.
Quick Facts
AT A GLANCEFollow the Connections
See how Open Reading frame (ORF) links to other biological records.
All 1 Structured Connections
Recommended Reading
Trusted references for learning more about Open Reading frame (ORF).
Research Claims
The term is used with differing start/stop conventions across software and fields. ORF length alone does not establish translation, function, or gene status; ribosome profiling, transcript evidence, conservation, and proteomics can contribute to assessment.