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Chapter 14: Problem 4

Francis Crick proposed the "adaptor hypothesis" for the function of tRNA. Why did he choose that description?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Francis Crick chose the term "adaptor" to describe the function of tRNA in his "adaptor hypothesis" because tRNA molecules act as a bridge, or adaptor, between the genetic information in mRNA and the amino acids that make up proteins. They have the ability to "translate" or "adapt" the information (codon) in mRNA into a specific amino acid, which plays a critical role in the process of protein synthesis.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the adaptor hypothesis

The "adaptor hypothesis" was proposed by Francis Crick in order to explain how amino acids are added to growing polypeptide chains during protein synthesis. At the time, it was not known exactly how amino acids were assembled onto the polypeptide chains. Crick's hypothesis suggested that there must be intermediate molecules between the amino acids and the mRNA template known as transfer RNA (tRNA). These tRNA molecules would "adapt" the genetic code present in mRNA into a specific amino acid sequence.
02

Explaining the role of tRNA in protein synthesis

The transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules are essential parts of the protein synthesis process. They play a crucial role in translating the genetic information carried by mRNA into the sequence of amino acids that make up proteins. In this process, tRNA molecules act as carriers, bringing amino acids to ribosomes where they are added to the growing polypeptide chain. Each tRNA molecule carries a specific amino acid that matches a three-base sequence, or codon, on the mRNA.
03

Understanding the term "adaptor"

The term "adaptor" was chosen because tRNA molecules act as a bridge, or "adaptor", between the genetic information in mRNA and the amino acids that make up proteins. They have the ability to "translate" or "adapt" the information (codon) in mRNA into a specific amino acid - a critical step in protein synthesis.
04

Explaining the significance of tRNA as an adaptor

The choice of the term "adaptor" highlights tRNA's unique function in the protein synthesis process. By "adapting" the genetic code in mRNA into a specific amino acid, tRNA molecules allow for the correct assembly of proteins, which are essential for the proper functioning of cells and organisms. In summary, Francis Crick chose the term "adaptor" to describe the function of tRNA in his "adaptor hypothesis" because tRNA molecules bridge the gap between the genetic information in mRNA and the amino acids that form proteins, acting as key "adaptors" in the process of protein synthesis.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Certain mutations called amber in bacteria and viruses result in premature termination of polypeptide chains during translation. Many amber mutations have been detected at different points along the gene coding for a head protein in phage \(\mathrm{T} 4\) How might this system be further investigated to demonstrate and support the concept of colinearity?

Assuming that an amino acid sequence is 250 amino acids long, how many different molecules, each with a unique sequence, could be formed?

Contrast the contributions of Pauling and Ingram to our understanding of the genetic basis for sickle-cell anemia.

Define and compare the four levels of protein organization.

Discuss the potential difficulties of designing a diet to alleviate the symptoms of phenylketonuria.
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