Protein Synthesis 2
Biology: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 6.1.13
Protein Synthesis
The process of protein synthesis (creation) happens like this:
Template taken
- A template is taken from the DNA and leaves the nucleus.
Template used
- The template is used to guide protein synthesis on ribosomes located in the cytoplasm.
Delivery of amino acids
- Specific amino acids are delivered by carrier molecules to the protein chain, where they are added in the order shown on the template.
Unique structure created
- Once complete, the long protein chain folds up, giving it a unique structure.
- This unique structure is essential to the protein’s function, in the form of enzymes, hormones, or structural proteins (e.g. collagen).
Test yourself on Protein Synthesis 2
Which of the following steps are involved in the process of protein synthesis?
Protein Synthesis
Why does a protein chain need to fold into a unique structure after protein synthesis?
Why does the template need to leave the nucleus before protein synthesis can take place?
What would most likely happen to a protein that failed to fold into its correct, unique structure?