Question

To initiate translation, the mRNA first binds to ______.

विकल्प

• The smaller ribosomal sub-unit

• The larger ribosomal sub-unit

• The whole ribosome

• No such specificity exists

Answer 1

To initiate translation, the mRNA first binds to the smaller ribosomal sub-unit.

Explanation:

To initiate translation, the messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule first binds to the smaller ribosomal sub-unit. In its inactive state, the ribosome exists as two separate pieces, the large and small subunits. The process begins when the small subunit recognises and binds to the mRNA strand, often scanning for the start codon (AUG). Once this initial binding occurs and the initiator tRNA is in place, the larger ribosomal sub-unit then joins the complex to form a complete, functional ribosome that can begin building the protein chain.