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Multiple Choice
How does the eukaryotic ribosomal small subunit recognize the start codon on the mRNA during translation?
A
By binding directly to the start codon
B
By interacting with tRNA molecules that bind to the start codon
C
By attaching to the poly-A tail and moving upstream
D
By recognizing the 5' cap structure and scanning for the start codon
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using mRNA as a template.
Recognize that in eukaryotic cells, the ribosome must identify the correct start codon on the mRNA to begin translation accurately.
Note that the eukaryotic ribosomal small subunit initially binds to the 5' cap structure of the mRNA. This cap is a modified guanine nucleotide added to the 5' end of the mRNA.
Once bound to the 5' cap, the ribosomal small subunit, along with initiation factors, begins scanning the mRNA in the 5' to 3' direction.
The ribosomal small subunit continues scanning until it encounters the start codon (AUG), where it can then recruit the large ribosomal subunit to form a complete ribosome and initiate protein synthesis.