Termination of translation

Definition

Termination of translation is the process by which a completed polypeptide chain is released from the ribosome after a stop codon is encountered. It marks the end of protein synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Termination occurs when a stop codon (UAA, UAG, or UGA) enters the A site of the ribosome.
2. Release factors (RFs) bind to the stop codon and facilitate the release of the newly synthesized polypeptide.
3. There are different release factors in prokaryotes (RF1, RF2) and eukaryotes (eRF).
4. The ribosome disassembles into its subunits after termination, making it available for another round of translation.
5. Mutations affecting termination can lead to incomplete or malfunctioning proteins.

Review Questions

Related terms

Initiation of Translation: The process that begins protein synthesis by assembling the ribosome, mRNA, and initiator tRNA.

Elongation in Translation: The stage where amino acids are sequentially added to a growing polypeptide chain.

Stop Codon:

Specific sequences (UAA, UAG, UGA) that signal the end of translation in mRNA.