Transfer RNA

Transfer RNA (tRNA) is a type of RNA that plays an integral role in protein synthesis within cells. It is responsible for decoding the mRNA sequence into a protein.

Structure

tRNA is a single-stranded RNA molecule that folds into a three-dimensional structure. This structure is often represented as a cloverleaf shape, with the anticodon loop and the amino acid attachment site at opposite ends.

Function

The primary function of tRNA is to transport amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis. Each tRNA molecule is specific for one amino acid and one or several codons. The anticodon of the tRNA pairs with the codon of the mRNA in the ribosome, ensuring that the correct amino acid is incorporated into the growing polypeptide chain.

Synthesis

tRNA molecules are synthesized by RNA polymerase III in the nucleus. The initial transcript, known as pre-tRNA, undergoes several modifications before it is functional. These modifications include the addition of the CCA sequence at the 3' end, which is the site of amino acid attachment, and the removal of introns.

Types

There are different types of tRNA for each of the 20 amino acids. In addition, there are several tRNA molecules for each amino acid, each recognizing a different codon. This redundancy is known as the wobble hypothesis.

Role in disease

Mutations in tRNA genes can lead to disease. For example, mutations in the gene for mitochondrial tRNA for leucine have been associated with MELAS syndrome.

See also

• Aminoacyl tRNA synthetase
• Codon
• Translation (biology)

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