Protein Synthesis and Turnover

Upon completion of transcription, the newly synthesized messenger RNA (mRNA) translocates out of the nucleus and into the cytoplasm where it gets translated into functional proteins. Decoding the mRNA into an amino acid sequence requires the concerted action of both RNA molecules, including transfer RNAs (tRNAs) and ribosomal RNAs (rRNAS), as well as many cytoplasmic proteins. This chapter outlines the molecular events that underlie the translation of mRNA into protein, highlighting the mechanisms that ensure high fidelity of these events. This chapter also discusses how newly synthesized proteins are targeted to their correct intracellular location, as well as the quality control mechanisms in place that ensure protein integrity inside the cell.