Question

Which of the following statements best describes the function of aminoacyl tRNA synthetase?

a. It attaches a specific amino acid to a tRNA molecule.
b. It provides the energy required to attach a specific amino acid to a tRNA molecule.
c. It synthesizes tRNA molecules.
d. It helps tRNA synthesize proteins.

Answer 1

Aminoacyl tRNA synthetase functions to attach a specific amino acid to its corresponding tRNA molecule during the process of tRNA charging, which is crucial for accurate protein synthesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of aminoacyl tRNA synthetase is best described by statement 'a': It attaches a specific amino acid to a tRNA molecule. During a crucial process known as tRNA "charging," the aminoacyl tRNA synthetase enzyme binds to a tRNA molecule and catalyzes the formation of a high-energy bond between the tRNA and the correct or cognate amino acid. This explicit pairing ensures that the amino acids are correctly sequenced in the protein being synthesized.