Translation

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the translation process and ribosome function in protein synthesis.

Translation

The process where mRNA is decoded to build a polypeptide chain.

Ribosome

A cellular structure made of two subunits (large and small) that synthesizes proteins by translating mRNA.

Subunits of Ribosomes

Ribosomes consist of a large subunit (60S) and a small subunit (40S), coming together to function.

mRNA Binding

The five prime cap of modified mRNA binds to the ribosome, allowing it to be read in the 5' to 3' direction.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides on mRNA that specifies an amino acid.

Start Codon

AUG, which codes for the amino acid methionine and signals the start of translation.

tRNA

Transfer RNA that delivers specific amino acids to the ribosome for polypeptide formation.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that is complementary to a codon in mRNA.

Peptide Bond

The bond formed between amino acids during protein synthesis.

Stop Codon

Signals the termination of translation; no amino acid is associated with a stop codon.

Post-translational Modification

Changes made to a polypeptide chain after translation, such as the addition of sugars or phosphates.