Simple Definition

Protein synthesis involves transcription (DNA to mRNA) and translation (mRNA to protein) in the ribosomes. mRNA carries the genetic information from DNA, tRNA brings amino acids to the ribosome, and ribosomes assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain following the genetic code.

In-depth

Protein synthesis is a fundamental biological process that occurs in all living organisms. It is a two-step process that involves transcription and translation.

Transcription is the first step where the genetic information encoded in the DNA is copied into a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. This process takes place in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells and in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells. The mRNA serves as a template for protein synthesis and carries the genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes.

Translation is the second step in protein synthesis, where the mRNA is decoded to build a specific protein. This process occurs in the ribosomes, which act as the protein factories of the cell. Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules play a crucial role in translation by bringing the correct amino acids to the ribosome based on the codons (three-nucleotide sequences) on the mRNA.

The ribosomes then catalyze the formation of peptide bonds between the amino acids, resulting in the synthesis of a polypeptide chain. This chain folds into a specific three-dimensional structure, ultimately forming a functional protein that carries out various cellular functions. The entire process of protein synthesis is tightly regulated and essential for the growth, development, and maintenance of an organism.