The spelling of the term "GTP Phosphohydrolase Linked Elongation Factors" can be quite confusing. The first word, "GTP," is spelled as it sounds, with a hard "G" and a "T" sound. The second word, "Phosphohydrolase," is spelled with the sounds "fawss-foh-hahy-druh-leys." The third word, "Linked," is spelled with a clear "L" sound and a short "i" sound before the "n." "Elongation" is spelled with a long "o" sound in the second syllable, while "Factors" is spelled as it is pronounced, with a "fak-ters" sound.
GTP phosphohydrolase linked elongation factors (EFs) are proteins involved in protein synthesis, specifically in the elongation step of translation. Elongation factors are a family of proteins that play crucial roles in the ribosome-mediated synthesis of proteins. They facilitate the binding of aminoacyl-tRNAs (transfer RNAs) to the ribosome, the positioning of the codon-anticodon pairs, and the formation of peptide bonds.
GTP phosphohydrolase linked elongation factors are characterized by their requirement for GTP hydrolysis for proper functioning. During elongation, these factors bind to the ribosome and GTP, undergoing a conformational change that allows them to interact with incoming aminoacyl-tRNAs. Once the aminoacyl-tRNA is bound, GTP is hydrolyzed to GDP (guanosine diphosphate) by the elongation factor, resulting in a conformational change that facilitates peptide bond formation between the growing peptide chain and the newly added amino acid.
This GTP hydrolysis reaction is essential for the proper advancement of the ribosome along the mRNA (messenger RNA) molecule and the accurate incorporation of amino acids into the growing peptide chain. It provides the energy required for the translocation of the ribosome to the next codon, thereby ensuring precision and fidelity in protein synthesis.
GTP phosphohydrolase linked elongation factors are critical components of the cellular machinery involved in protein synthesis and are present in all organisms, from bacteria to humans. Their activity is tightly regulated and coordinated with other factors to ensure the accurate and efficient production of proteins, which is essential for the proper functioning of cells and organisms.