tRNA, also known as transfer RNA, is a small molecule found in cells that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis or translation. It acts as an intermediary between messenger RNA (mRNA) and amino acids during this process, facilitating the translation of the genetic code into proteins.
tRNA is made up of approximately 70-90 nucleotides, forming a distinctive secondary structure. It consists of a cloverleaf-like shape, with various regions serving specific functions. Notably, it possesses an anticodon loop that contains three complementary nucleotides, which can form base pairs with the corresponding codon on mRNA during translation. This ensures the accurate insertion of amino acids into the growing protein chain.
The primary function of tRNA is to "carry" or transport specific amino acids to the ribosomes to help form the correct sequence of amino acids in a protein. Each tRNA molecule is designed to bind to a specific amino acid, which it subsequently delivers to the ribosome during translation. The binding specificity is determined by the anticodon sequence on the tRNA, which matches a corresponding codon sequence on the mRNA.
The genetic code, stored in DNA, provides instructions for the production of specific proteins. tRNA plays a vital role in decoding this genetic information by recognizing the appropriate codons on mRNA and bringing the corresponding amino acids to the ribosome, acting as a vital link between the genetic code and protein synthesis. Without tRNA, protein synthesis would be compromised, affecting the normal functioning of cells and organisms.
