Translation of mRNA

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary and concepts related to the translation of mRNA as detailed in the lecture notes.

Translation

The process in which the mRNA codons are decoded to synthesize proteins.

Codons

Groups of three nucleotides in mRNA that correspond to specific amino acids.

Start Codon

The codon that signals the start of translation, typically AUG, which codes for methionine.

Stop Codons

Codons that signal the termination of translation, such as UAA, UAG, and UGA.

Amino Acyl-tRNA Synthetases

Enzymes that attach amino acids to their corresponding tRNAs.

Wobble Hypothesis

The hypothesis that explains how some tRNAs can pair with multiple codons due to flexibility at the third position.

Ribosome

A macromolecular complex where protein synthesis occurs, composed of rRNA and proteins.

Anticodon

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

Peptide Bond

The bond formed between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another during protein synthesis.

Initiation Factors

Proteins required during the initiation stage of translation to form the initiation complex.

Degenerate Code

The feature of the genetic code that allows multiple codons to code for the same amino acid.

Polypeptide Chain Directionality

Refers to the orientation of polypeptide synthesis from the N-terminal to the C-terminal end.

tRNA Structure

The cloverleaf structure of tRNA, which includes an acceptor stem, anticodon loop, and variable regions.

Kozak's Rules

Rules that govern the optimal recognition of the start codon in eukaryotic translation.

Molecular Chaperones

Proteins that assist in the proper folding of other proteins during translation.