Abstract
A hypothesis explaining the observed specificity in respect of the recognition of specific transfer RNA's ‡ by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases is presented. Available evidence, although not decisive, seems to favour the view that the synthetase recognizes a specific nucleotide sequence (“synthetase recognition code-word”) in the tRNA. If this is true, it is argued that the amino acids should bear the same relationship to each other in respect of their synthetase recognition code-words as they do in respect of their codons. The nucleotide sequences of five yeast tRNA's are analysed in the light of the above premise, and a possible set of synthetase recognition code-words for all the amino acids in yeast, excepting methionine, is proposed. The suggested three letter synthetase recognition code-words begin with either adenine or uracil, and in the case of the five yeast tRNAs of known structure, occur in the same region of the RNA molecule; they may be recognized by the appropriate yeast synthetase only if certain constraints, which are stated, are satisfied. Available evidence supporting the proposed assignments is summarized, and some predictions made. It would seem that the synthetase recognition code—in a way the second genetic code—is species specific.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.