Elongation Factor G is a crucial protein in the process of protein synthesis. Its spelling is derived from the pronunciation of its name, which is /ɪlɔŋˈɡeɪʃən/ /ˈfæktər/ /dʒiː/. The "e" in "elongation" uses the short "e" sound, while the first "o" uses the "long o" sound. "Factor" is pronounced using the "short a" sound, and "G" is pronounced as "gee." Despite its complex name, Elongation Factor G plays an important role in ensuring protein synthesis occurs correctly within the cell.
Elongation Factor G (EF-G) is a protein molecule that plays a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. It is involved in the elongation phase of translation, which is the process of converting the information contained in an mRNA molecule into a sequence of amino acids that form a protein.
EF-G functions as a molecular motor by catalyzing the translocation of the ribosome along the mRNA molecule during translation. This translocation ensures the correct reading and decoding of the mRNA sequence, allowing for the insertion of the corresponding amino acid into the growing polypeptide chain.
EF-G binds to the ribosome after the ribosome has added an amino acid to the growing polypeptide chain. The binding triggers the hydrolysis of GTP (guanosine triphosphate) to GDP (guanosine diphosphate) and Pi (inorganic phosphate), providing the energy necessary for the movement of the ribosome.
Once bound to the ribosome, EF-G induces a conformational change that moves the ribosome by one codon along the mRNA molecule. This movement exposes a new codon for binding to the appropriate tRNA molecule with the corresponding amino acid.
Overall, EF-G is an essential component of the protein synthesis machinery, ensuring the accurate elongation of the polypeptide chain by facilitating the movement of the ribosome along the mRNA molecule. Its motor-like activity relies on GTP hydrolysis for energy, highlighting its crucial role in the overall process of protein synthesis.