Download Gum Drop Protein Synthesis

Your job is to create a model that shows the process of protein synthesis. You may use any
materials you want to construct your models. Here are some ideas: colored paper, tape,
toothpicks, candy, paper clips, erasers, clay, pipe cleaner, and beads.
Simulate protein synthesis by following the directions outlined below. The questions under each
section are the questions to be completed on a separate piece of paper (one per group, but
everyone is responsible for knowing this information).
1. Mimic the creation of mRNA from a gene by modeling a section of a DNA strand, transcription
factors, RNA polymerase and mRNA. The sequence of the strand of DNA that is used as a
template is:
3’
G A T A C G A A T T T A C G A T A G G C A C T 5’
Be sure you also include promoter and terminator sequences in the DNA. You choose what
the base sequence of those sections should be.
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Which end of your mRNA strand is the 5’ end? Which is the 3’ end?
Where does this process happen in the cell?
What is the name of process by which RNA is made from DNA?
Why must this process be done?
What is the name of the enzyme that performs this process?
What are the three major steps of this process and what happens in each?
2. Simulate RNA processing by adding a 5’ cap and a poly A tail to your mRNA model.
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Give two reasons why this process must be done.
Where does this process happen in the cell?
In what types of cell does this process occur?
To what end of the mRNA strand is the G cap added? The poly-A tail?
3. Mimic splicing by finding the sequence A A A U G C and cutting it out of the mRNA. Attach the
new ends of the mRNA strand together.
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What is the name of the molecule that does this process in the cell?
Where does this process happen in the cell?
In what types of cell does this process occur?
Why must this process happen?
What is the name of the section of mRNA that was cut out? What is the name of the sections of
mRNA that were attached together?
4. Create five tRNA molecules with the anti-codons: UAC, GAA, AUA, GGC, and ACU. Include
the correct amino acid to each tRNA molecule.
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What is the name of the molecule that attaches amino acids to tRNA molecules in the cell?
Where does this process happen in the cell?
5. Model the four steps of the INITIATION process of translation using your mRNA molecule and a
model of the ribosomal subunit pieces.
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In what two locations in the cell can this occur?
What is the difference in the types of proteins that are made in these two locations?
What types of molecules are the ribosomes made of?
6. Model the three steps of the ELONGATION process of translation.
 What are the names of the three steps?
 What is the name of the bond that joins two amino acids?
 In which direction does the ribosome move along the mRNA?
7. Model the three steps of the TERMINATION process of translation.
 What does the release factor do?
 What happens to the parts after protein synthesis is complete?
Extra Considerations:
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Is your model properly & clearly labeled?
Think about where these processes happen…is that shown on your model?
Does your model demonstrate creativity?
Did you get your names on there?