Translation Turns mRNA to Polypeptides
Definition
Translation
Translation is the synthesis of polypeptides from mRNA, where the base sequence of mRNA is converted into an amino acid sequence.
- The genetic code uses codons (triplets of bases on mRNA), each specifying an amino acid or start/stop signal.
- tRNA molecules deliver amino acids to the ribosome by matching their anticodons with complementary codons on mRNA through base pairing.
- The ribosome reads the mRNA and assembles amino acids into a polypeptide chain.
The Process of Translation
The key players of translation are mRNA, ribosomes, and tRNA.
1. Initiation
- The small ribosomal subunit binds to the mRNA near the start codon (AUG).
- A tRNA carrying methionine pairs its anticodon (UAC) with the start codon.
- The large ribosomal subunit attaches, forming a complete ribosome.
2. Elongation
- A tRNA with the next amino acid binds to the A site of the ribosome.
- A peptide bond forms between the amino acids, linking them together.
