Which type(s) of RNA are involved in translation?

Which type(s) of RNA are involved in translation?

• A. mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA
• B. Only mRNA
• C. Only tRNA
• D. Only rRNA

Answer: (A)

Translation uses three RNA types: messenger RNA provides the coded instructions in codons; transfer RNA brings the correct amino acid and has an anticodon that pairs with the mRNA codon to ensure the right amino acid is added; ribosomal RNA forms the ribosome itself and carries out the catalytic peptide-bond-forming reaction. The mRNA sequence dictates the order of amino acids, the tRNA delivers the building blocks, and the rRNA-based ribosome coordinates and catalyzes the assembly. Because all three work together, the genetic message is faithfully translated into a polypeptide.

Translation uses three RNA types: messenger RNA provides the coded instructions in codons; transfer RNA brings the correct amino acid and has an anticodon that pairs with the mRNA codon to ensure the right amino acid is added; ribosomal RNA forms the ribosome itself and carries out the catalytic peptide-bond-forming reaction. The mRNA sequence dictates the order of amino acids, the tRNA delivers the building blocks, and the rRNA-based ribosome coordinates and catalyzes the assembly. Because all three work together, the genetic message is faithfully translated into a polypeptide.