Which molecule delivers amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis?

Which molecule delivers amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis?

• A. mRNA
• B. rRNA
• C. tRNA
• D. DNA

Answer: (C)

During protein synthesis, the messenger RNA provides the code in codons, but the molecule that actually delivers the amino acids is transfer RNA. Each tRNA carries a specific amino acid and contains an anticodon that pairs with the corresponding codon on the mRNA. This matching ensures the correct amino acid is added at the right position in the growing polypeptide. The amino acid is attached to the tRNA by an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, creating a charged tRNA that can participate in peptide bond formation at the ribosome. The ribosome, with its rRNA components, acts as the site where tRNAs donate their amino acids and the chain is extended. DNA serves as the template for making mRNA, not the carrier of amino acids.

During protein synthesis, the messenger RNA provides the code in codons, but the molecule that actually delivers the amino acids is transfer RNA. Each tRNA carries a specific amino acid and contains an anticodon that pairs with the corresponding codon on the mRNA. This matching ensures the correct amino acid is added at the right position in the growing polypeptide. The amino acid is attached to the tRNA by an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, creating a charged tRNA that can participate in peptide bond formation at the ribosome. The ribosome, with its rRNA components, acts as the site where tRNAs donate their amino acids and the chain is extended. DNA serves as the template for making mRNA, not the carrier of amino acids.