What are the roles of the mRNA codon and the tRNA anticodon?
The mRNA codon and tRNA anticodon play important roles in the process of protein synthesis.
The mRNA (messenger RNA) codon is a sequence of three nucleotides on the mRNA molecule. Each codon codes for a specific amino acid during the process of translation. The codons serve as a genetic code, determining the order in which amino acids are added to the growing polypeptide chain.
On the other hand, tRNA (transfer RNA) molecules carry specific amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis. Each tRNA molecule has a corresponding anticodon, which is a sequence of three nucleotides on the tRNA molecule that pairs with the codon on the mRNA.
The anticodon of the tRNA molecule is complementary to the codon on the mRNA. For example, if the mRNA codon is 'AAA', the tRNA anticodon would be 'UUU'. This complementary base pairing ensures that the correct amino acid is brought to the ribosome during translation.
In summary, the mRNA codon determines the sequence of amino acids to be added to the growing protein chain, whereas the tRNA anticodon ensures that the correct amino acid is added by pairing with the codon on the mRNA. This process ensures the accurate and precise synthesis of proteins in the cell.