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2.22 Protein Synthesis
The process of protein synthesis isn't as simple as stringing together amino acids to form a
polypeptide. As shown below, this is a fairly involved process. DNA contains the genetic code
that is used as a template to create mRNA in a process known as transcription. The mRNA then
moves out of the nucleus into the cytoplasm where it serves as the template for translation,
where tRNAs bring in individual amino acids that are bonded together to form a polypeptide.
Figure 2.221 The process of creating a polypeptide1
Proteins, known as ribosomes, assist with translation. After translation, the polypeptide can be
folded or gain structure as shown below and will be discussed in the next subsection (Protein
Structure).
Figure 2.222 Protein synthesis and processing
These videos do an excellent job of showing and explaining how protein synthesis occurs.
Web Links
Video: DNA Synthesis & Protein Assembly (3:02)
Video: Protein Synthesis (1:49)
References & Links
1. http://www.genome.gov/Pages/Hyperion/DIR/VIP/Glossary/Illustration/mrna.cfm?key=messenger%20RNA
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Proteinsynthesis.png
Videos
DNA Synthesis & Protein Assembly http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=983lhh20rGY
Protein Synthesis - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6O6uRb1D38