During translation, what molecule bears the codon? the anticodon?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that translation is the process by which the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific polypeptide or protein.
2. Identify that the molecule bearing the codon is the mRNA (messenger RNA). The codon is a sequence of three nucleotides on the mRNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid.
3. Recognize that the anticodon is a sequence of three nucleotides on the tRNA (transfer RNA) that is complementary to the mRNA codon.
4. During translation, the tRNA molecule with the anticodon pairs with the appropriate codon on the mRNA strand, ensuring that the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.
5. Remember that the ribosome facilitates the binding of the tRNA anticodon to the mRNA codon, allowing for the sequential addition of amino acids to form a protein.

Key Concepts

Codon

A codon is a sequence of three nucleotides in messenger RNA (mRNA) that specifies a particular amino acid during protein synthesis. Each codon corresponds to one of the 20 amino acids or a stop signal, guiding the assembly of proteins. Understanding codons is essential for grasping how genetic information is translated into functional proteins.

Anticodon

An anticodon is a sequence of three nucleotides in transfer RNA (tRNA) that is complementary to a specific codon in mRNA. During translation, the anticodon pairs with its corresponding codon, ensuring that the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain. This interaction is crucial for the accuracy of protein synthesis.

Translation

Translation is the process by which the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific polypeptide chain, ultimately forming a protein. This process occurs in the ribosome and involves the coordinated action of mRNA, tRNA, and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Understanding translation is fundamental to molecular biology and genetics, as it links gene expression to protein function.