Answer:
Translation takes place in 3 main steps: initiation, elongation and termination.
In initiation, the ribosome binds with the mRNA strand and a initiation complex forms. An initiator tRNA molecule brings the first amino acid, methionine. It binds with the start codon using its anticodon, UAC. The large ribosomal subunit then binds to the small ribosomal subunit.
In elongation, more charged tRNAs bring the amino acids to be added on the growing polypeptide chain. Elongation continues until the ribosome encounters the stop codon.
In termination, a release factor binds to the stop codon, causing the polypeptide to be released from the ribosome. The ribosomal subunits separate from the mRNA and from each other. The polypeptide undergoes folding to form secondary and tertiary structures to become a fully-functional protein.
Notes:
• Translation is the process by which a protein is synthesized from mRNA.
• mRNA: messenger RNA
• tRNA: transfer RNA
• codon: A 3-nucleotide sequence that codes for a specific amino acid. For example, AUG codes for methionine.
