Protein Synthesis Collection (#2)

Poly(A)-binding protein and RNA complex. Computer model showing the structure of a poly(A)-binding protein (PABP) molecule bound to the poly(A)

Nerve cell, TEM C013 / 4797
Nerve cell. Transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of a section through a neuron (nerve cell), showing characteristic Nissl body (dark blue lines), numerous golgi apparatus (curved green lines)

Nerve cell, TEM C013 / 4796
Nerve cell. Transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of a section through a neuron (nerve cell), showing characteristic Nissl body (dark red lines), numerous golgi apparatus (curved pink lines)

Genetic translation, computer diagram. This process uses genetic information to direct the synthesis of proteins. The main molecules involved are two types of RNA (ribonucleic acid)

F / col TEM of polyribosomes from brain cell
False-colour transmission electron micrograph (TEM) of a polyribosome from a human brain cell. Polyribosomes (or polysomes)

Transfer RNA molecule. Computer artwork of the double helix of tRNA (transfer ribonucleic acid), formed by spiralling paired strands of sugar phosphates, linked by nucleotide base pairs

Antibiotic mechanism of action, artwork
Antibiotic mechanism of action. Computer artwork showing the sites where two different families of antibiotics exert their effects on messenger RNA (mRNA)

Protein translation, artwork
Protein translation. Artwork showing the process of translation, the final stage of the production of proteins from the genetic code

Protein synthesis, artwork
peptid

Transcription factor and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Molecular model showing the 6 zinc fingers of transcription factor IIIA (purple) bound to RNA (ribonucleic acid)

Ribosomal subunit, molecular model
Ribosomal subunit. Computer model showing the structure of the RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules in a 50S (large) ribosomal sub-unit. Ribosomes are composed of protein (not seen) and RNA

RNA processing protein, molecular model
RNA processing protein, RNase MRP. Computer model showing the molecular structure of mitochondrial RNase MRP (mitochondrial RNA processing)

mRNA recognition by bacterial repressor. Computer model showing a bacterial protein (green and red) bound to mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid, purple and brown)

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Protein synthesis, a fundamental process in all living organisms, plays a crucial role in the growth and maintenance of cells. This intricate mechanism occurs within the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER), an organelle responsible for protein production and transportation. Through the lens of a transmission electron microscope (TEM), we can observe the fascinating world of protein synthesis. A bacterial ribosome, resembling a tiny factory, diligently assembles amino acids into complex proteins. In a cross-section biomedical illustration, we witness this remarkable process taking place within DNA – the blueprint of life itself. Moving beyond illustrations, an X-ray view reveals the interconnectedness between protein synthesis and our body's structure. The human skeleton stands tall while relying on proteins produced by liver cells to maintain its strength and integrity. However, not all aspects are beneficial. Ricin A-chain artwork reminds us of its deadly potential when misused or encountered in toxic plants like castor beans. Artworks depicting ricin molecules serve as cautionary reminders about their destructive capabilities if they interfere with essential cellular processes. Returning to explore more positive aspects, let's delve deeper into understanding how proteins are synthesized at a molecular level. Human 80S ribosomes come into focus; these large complexes orchestrate every step involved in assembling amino acids according to genetic instructions encoded by DNA. Intriguingly shaped like clover leaves carrying specific amino acids, transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules act as messengers during protein synthesis. They transport each required building block to the growing chain inside ribosomes with precision and accuracy. As we unravel the intricacies surrounding protein synthesis through various visual aids – from TEM images to biomedical illustrations – we gain insight into one of nature's most vital processes that sustains life itself.