1. mRNA arrives at the ribosome: The mRNA molecule, carrying the genetic code from the DNA, binds to the ribosome.
2. tRNA brings amino acids: Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules, each carrying a specific amino acid, enter the ribosome. Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon that matches a codon on the mRNA.
3. Amino acids are linked together: The ribosome moves along the mRNA, reading each codon. As it does so, it brings together the corresponding amino acids, linking them together in a chain.
4. Polypeptide chain forms: The chain of amino acids, called a polypeptide, grows as the ribosome continues to translate the mRNA.
5. Protein folding: Once the entire mRNA sequence has been translated, the polypeptide chain detaches from the ribosome. This chain then folds into a specific three-dimensional shape, forming a functional protein.
In summary, the ribosome acts as the "translator" between the mRNA code and the amino acid sequence, with the help of tRNA molecules. This translation process is essential for building the proteins that perform all sorts of vital functions in our bodies.