Question

Although each tRNA consists of a relatively short, single RNA strand, can this single strand achieve a 3D structure by folding back upon itself and forming covalent bonds between complementary bases?

Answer 1

The single-stranded tRNA molecule can fold into a three-dimensional structure through intramolecular hydrogen bonds, forming a functional shape for protein synthesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Despite each tRNA consisting of a short, single RNA strand, this strand can indeed fold back upon itself and form hydrogen bonds between complementary bases. This intramolecular base pairing enables the tRNA to achieve its characteristic 3D structure, which entails a stable, functional shape essential for its role in protein synthesis. The tRNA's ability to fold into a 3-dimensional shape is exemplified by its 'cloverleaf' secondary structure that further folds into an 'L-shaped' tertiary structure, positioning the amino acid binding site and the anticodon at specific ends of the molecule. This 3D structure allows for the crucial interactions with mRNA during the translation process in protein synthesis.