Pószttranszláció

Pószttranszláció is a Hungarian term that translates to "post-translation" in English. It refers to the series of modifications that a protein undergoes after its initial synthesis on the ribosome. These modifications are crucial for a protein's proper function, stability, localization within the cell, and interaction with other molecules.

Following the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into a polypeptide chain, the newly synthesized protein is not yet fully functional. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) can alter the protein's chemical structure, charge, or three-dimensional shape. Common examples of PTMs include phosphorylation, glycosylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, and methylation. Each of these modifications plays a distinct role in regulating protein activity and cellular processes. For instance, phosphorylation can act as an on/off switch for enzyme activity, while glycosylation can affect protein folding and cell surface recognition. Ubiquitination often targets proteins for degradation.

The repertoire of PTMs is vast and complex, and they can occur individually or in combination, creating a "post-translational code" that further diversifies protein function. These modifications are often reversible, allowing for dynamic regulation of cellular pathways. Errors in post-translational modification processes can lead to various diseases, highlighting their importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Researchers study PTMs to understand fundamental biological mechanisms and to develop novel therapeutic strategies.