Protein Synthesis and the Cellular Structures and Functions Involved

A guided inquiry

Objectives:

After studying this animation you will be able to

  • List the cellular structures and features used in protein synthesis
  • Explain the role of DNA and RNA in the process
  • Name the three types of RNA and their individual roles in the process
  • Describe the differences in function and structure of proteins synthesized in the cytoplasm versus those synthesized in the RER
  • Make a detailed sketch that shows the movement of proteins from their synthesis to their release from the cell

Procedure:

Rather than standing up and talking about protein synthesis, this animation does a beautiful job of teaching the idea and some of its complexity. Go to the site - - and watch the video, then read through the questions. How many can you answer roughly at first glance? Watch the video again and answer the questions below.

Important Questions to be Answered:

  1. Where is the information for the primary amino acid sequence of a protein stored?
  2. Chromatin is usually a tightly coiled dense structure> What is it made of ? How is its structure changed to make the information available to be read?
  3. How many types of RNA are required to make a protein?
  4. What is the role of each one?
  5. Where is the RNA in a ribosome synthesized? Where is the ribosome assembled? What is contained in a ribosome besides RNA?
  6. How do RNA and ribosomes leave the nucleus
  1. Where is the cell are proteins manufactured?
  2. What determines where a protein is synthesized?
  3. What is the name of the reaction in which amino acids are joined to form peptide bonds?
  4. How does a ribosome “know” that the amino acid sequence is complete?
  5. What types of proteins are manufactured in the ER and what will be their function?
  6. What happens to the proteins in the ER after they are synthesized?
  7. What is different about the proteins manufactured inside the ER?
  8. Where to they go after the RER?
  9. What happens to proteins that are transported through the Golgi apparatus?

Big Picture Question: How are proteins destined for the cell membrane get there from their site of synthesis?

Big Picture Question: What are the main organelles and structures required for the synthesis of proteins