Describe and explain the process of protein synthesis. (6 marks)

Transcription is the first step of protein synthesis. This involves DNA helicase unwinding the double stranded DNA, and complementary mRNA binding to the DNA bases with the help of the DNA polymerase. DNA ligase then binds the mRNA bases together, to form a strand of mRNA. This strand of mRNA then moves away from the DNA before undergoing splicing, where introns are removes and a poly-A-tail and 7 methylguanosine head are added. The mRNA strand then leaves the nucleus, and heads to the ribosome to begin translation. Translation begins with the joining of the mRNA strand to the ribosome. The mRNA is then read, 3 base pairs at a time, and tRNA molecules that are complementary to each codon bind, depositing their amino acids that they were carrying. This continues until all of the mRNA strand has been read, by which time tRNA molecules will have deposited many amino acids, which will join together to form a polypeptide. 

Answered by Ben S. Biology tutor

45154 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

State 3 organelles found in a Eukaryotic cell and the functions of each organelle.


what steps occur in the process of phagocytosis?


How does the kidney produce concentrated urine?


Give one piece of evidence that supports the theory that mitochondria evolved from prokaryotic cells.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences