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Multiple Choice
In translation termination, stop codons are recognized by which type of proteins?
A
Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases
B
Elongation factors
C
Release factors
D
Initiation factors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of translation termination: Translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using mRNA as a template. Termination occurs when the ribosome encounters a stop codon on the mRNA.
Identify the role of stop codons: Stop codons (UAA, UAG, UGA) do not code for any amino acid. Instead, they signal the end of translation and the release of the newly synthesized polypeptide chain.
Recognize the role of release factors: Release factors are specialized proteins that bind to the ribosome when a stop codon is present in the A site. They facilitate the hydrolysis of the bond between the polypeptide chain and the tRNA in the P site, releasing the completed protein.
Differentiate release factors from other proteins: Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are enzymes that attach amino acids to their corresponding tRNAs. Elongation factors assist in the addition of amino acids during elongation. Initiation factors are involved in the assembly of the ribosome at the start codon. None of these are involved in recognizing stop codons.
Conclude that release factors are the correct answer: Release factors specifically recognize stop codons and play a critical role in terminating translation by releasing the polypeptide chain from the ribosome.