Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
What would be the consequence of the absence of tRNA in the cytoplasm during protein synthesis?
A
DNA replication would be halted.
B
Amino acids would spontaneously form polypeptides.
C
Transcription of mRNA would not occur.
D
Ribosomes would be unable to translate mRNA into proteins.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of tRNA in protein synthesis: tRNA (transfer RNA) is responsible for bringing amino acids to the ribosome during translation. Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon that pairs with a complementary codon on the mRNA strand, ensuring the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.
Recognize the process of translation: Translation is the step in protein synthesis where ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain. This process requires tRNA to deliver amino acids to the ribosome.
Analyze the consequence of tRNA absence: Without tRNA, amino acids cannot be transported to the ribosome, and the ribosome cannot match codons on the mRNA with the corresponding amino acids. This halts the translation process entirely.
Clarify why other options are incorrect: DNA replication is unrelated to tRNA, as it occurs in the nucleus and involves DNA polymerase. Amino acids do not spontaneously form polypeptides; they require enzymatic activity and ribosomal machinery. Transcription of mRNA occurs in the nucleus and does not depend on tRNA, which functions in the cytoplasm.
Conclude the correct answer: The absence of tRNA in the cytoplasm would prevent ribosomes from translating mRNA into proteins, as tRNA is essential for delivering amino acids to the ribosome during translation.