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Chapter 13: Problem 5

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

Short Answer

Expert verified
Short Answer: Francis Crick's adaptor hypothesis proposes that tRNA functions as an adaptor molecule in protein synthesis, linking the information in mRNA to the corresponding amino acid. The term "adaptor" is fitting because tRNA essentially acts as a bridge between the mRNA and the amino acids, decoding the genetic information in mRNA into the language of proteins by matching its anticodon to the mRNA codon and delivering the corresponding amino acid to the growing polypeptide chain.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding the adaptor hypothesis

The adaptor hypothesis is a concept introduced by Francis Crick to explain the role of tRNA in the process of protein synthesis. tRNA, or transfer RNA, is a type of RNA molecule that helps in decoding the genetic information present in mRNA (messenger RNA) into amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. The hypothesis states that tRNA functions as an adaptor molecule, linking the information in mRNA to the corresponding amino acid during protein synthesis.
02

Understanding tRNA structure and function

tRNA has a unique three-dimensional structure with an acceptor stem at one end and an anticodon loop at the other end. The acceptor stem is where an amino acid is attached, whereas the anticodon loop contains a triplet of bases called the anticodon that is complementary to the codon on the mRNA. Thus, tRNA has a specific role in protein synthesis: to read the genetic code on mRNA and, by matching the anticodon to the mRNA codon, deliver the corresponding amino acid to the growing polypeptide chain.
03

Explaining the choice of the term "adaptor"

In the context of protein synthesis, Francis Crick chose the term "adaptor" because tRNA essentially acts as an adaptor, or a bridge, between the mRNA and the amino acids during protein synthesis. tRNA effectively "adapts" the genetic information in mRNA into the language of proteins by ensuring that the correct amino acid is incorporated at the right position within the growing protein chain. This crucial role that tRNA plays in protein synthesis makes the term "adaptor" quite appropriate and fitting for describing its function.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

A series of mutations in the bacterium Salmonella typhimurium results in the requirement of either tryptophan or some related molecule in order for growth to occur. From the data shown here, suggest a biosynthetic pathway for tryptophan.

Using sickle-cell anemia as a basis, describe what is meant by a genetic or inherited molecular disease. What are the similarities and dissimilarities between this type of a disorder and a disease caused by an invading microorganism?

Summarize the steps involved in charging tRNAs with their appropriate amino acids.

Hemoglobin is a tetramer consisting of two \(\alpha\) and two \(\beta\) chains. What level of protein structure is described in this statement?

During translation, what molecule bears the anticodon? The codon?
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