The parable of the caveman and the Ferrari: protein synthesis and the RNA world

Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2017 Mar 19;372(1716):20160187. doi: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0187.

Abstract

The basic steps of protein synthesis are carried out by the ribosome, a very large and complex ribonucleoprotein particle. In keeping with its proposed emergence from an RNA world, all three of its core mechanisms-aminoacyl-tRNA selection, catalysis of peptide bond formation and coupled translocation of mRNA and tRNA-are embodied in the properties of ribosomal RNA, while its proteins play a supportive role.This article is part of the themed issue 'Perspectives on the ribosome'.

Keywords: RNA; protein synthesis; ribosome.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Origin of Life
  • Protein Biosynthesis*
  • RNA / metabolism*
  • Transfer RNA Aminoacylation*
  • Translocation, Genetic*

Substances

  • RNA