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When an aminoacyl-trna synthetase charges a trna, which molecule(s) is/are released?

User Zombiehugs
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Final answer:

Upon charging by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase, a tRNA molecule releases two molecules: pyrophosphate (PPi) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP). This process occurs during protein synthesis and requires energy to form the high-energy bond between the amino acid and tRNA.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase charges a tRNA, two molecules are released during the process. Initially, ATP is hydrolyzed to AMP and a pyrophosphate molecule (PPi), which is expelled. Subsequently, as the amino acid is transferred to the tRNA, AMP is released. The overall reaction requires energy and proceeds in three steps: activation of the amino acid, transfer to the tRNA, and the regeneration of the enzyme. The charging of tRNA is crucial for protein synthesis, as the high-energy bond formed is used later in the translation process to form peptide bonds. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are highly specific enzymes, with at least one kind for each of the 20 amino acids.

User ChiefMcFrank
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