aminoaciltRNAnn

Aminoacyl-tRNA is a molecule essential for protein synthesis. It consists of an amino acid covalently attached to its corresponding transfer RNA (tRNA) molecule. The process of attaching an amino acid to a tRNA is called aminoacylation or charging. This is catalyzed by a family of enzymes known as aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. Each aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase is specific for one type of amino acid and its cognate tRNA.

The charging reaction requires energy, which is supplied by the hydrolysis of ATP. The amino acid is first activated by forming an aminoacyl-adenylate intermediate, which is then transferred to the 3' end of the tRNA molecule. The resulting aminoacyl-tRNA molecule is now "charged" and ready to participate in translation.

During translation, the ribosome reads the genetic code in the messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence. Each codon on the mRNA specifies a particular amino acid. Aminoacyl-tRNAs act as adaptors, bringing the correct amino acid to the ribosome according to the mRNA sequence. The anticodon on the tRNA base-pairs with the codon on the mRNA, ensuring that the correct amino acid is incorporated into the growing polypeptide chain. This precise pairing is crucial for maintaining the accuracy of protein synthesis. After delivering its amino acid, the uncharged tRNA is released from the ribosome and can be recharged by its specific aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase.