Final answer:
The tRNA anticodon that pairs with the mRNA codon UUA is AAU, ensuring the matching of the correct amino acid to the mRNA sequence during protein synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an mRNA codon is UUA, the tRNA anticodon that would bind to this codon is AAU.
This anticodon is complementary to the codon. In the process of translation, tRNA molecules carry specific amino acids to the ribosome where proteins are synthesized.
The tRNA recognizes the codons on the mRNA through the anticodons, which are sequences of three nucleotides complementary to the codons. The matching of the anticodon to the codon ensures that the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.