RNA Translation

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to RNA translation, including the roles of various types of RNA, the process of translation, and the structure of proteins.

Codon

A codon is 3 nucleotides encoding either an amino acid or a translation stop.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the protein synthesis machinery.

Ribosome

A complex of rRNA and proteins that synthesizes proteins by translating mRNA.

tRNA

Transfer RNA that links codons to their respective amino acids during translation.

Stop Codon

A codon that does not encode any amino acid and signals the termination of translation.

Start Codon

A codon (AUG) that signals the start of translation and encodes methionine.

Amino Acid

The building blocks of proteins; there are 20 common amino acids.

Polyribosome (Polysome)

A structure formed by multiple ribosomes translating a single mRNA simultaneously.

Aminoacyl tRNA Synthetase

An enzyme that attaches the appropriate amino acid to its corresponding tRNA.

5’ Cap

A modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of eukaryotic mRNA that aids in stability and translation initiation.

PolyA Tail

A stretch of adenine nucleotides added to the 3' end of eukaryotic mRNA that enhances stability and translation.

Initiation Complex

A complex formed during the initiation stage of translation that includes the small ribosomal subunit, mRNA, and charged tRNA.

Degenerate Genetic Code

The property of the genetic code whereby multiple codons can encode the same amino acid.

Elongation

The stage in protein synthesis where the polypeptide chain increases in length as amino acids are added.

Termination

The final step in translation where the newly synthesized polypeptide is released upon encountering a stop codon.