Ribosomes read the mRNA codons to assemble amino acids into a protein.
Ribosomes read mRNA three bases at a time. tRNAs bring amino acids according to codon-anticodon pairing, and the ribosome forms peptide bonds. The process uses GTP and ATP; each peptide bond costs about 4 high-energy phosphate bonds.
In bacteria translation can begin while transcription continues because there is no nucleus.
Ribosomes read the mRNA codons to assemble amino acids into a protein.
Translation is one of the 52 topics in Molecular Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Initiation, Elongation, Termination, Transfer RNA, Genetic Code.
Ribosomes can add around 15 to 20 amino acids per second in bacteria.
Translation is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Molecular Biology that pair well with it include Central Dogma, DNA Replication, Base Pairing.
The closest topics to Translation are Initiation, Elongation, Termination, Transfer RNA, Genetic Code, Codon. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Translation. To practise the whole of Molecular Biology, use the Molecular Biology quiz.
Translation: Ribosomes read the mRNA codons to assemble amino acids into a protein. Initiation, Elongation, Termination: The three stages of translation: assembly at the start codon, chain growth, and release at a stop codon. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Initiation, Elongation, Termination and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Molecular Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
The three stages of translation: assembly at the start codon, chain growth, and release at a stop codon.
🧫 Molecular BiologySmall RNA adaptors with an anticodon that bring the correct amino acid to the ribosome.
🧫 Molecular BiologyThe set of three-base codons that specify amino acids; it is nearly universal across life.
🧫 Molecular BiologyA triplet of mRNA bases that codes for one amino acid or a stop signal.
🧫 Molecular Biology