The soluble RNA is tRNA.
Understanding tRNA and its Soluble Nature
Transfer RNA, commonly known as tRNA, is a type of RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It is often referred to as soluble RNA or activator RNA because of its unique characteristics. Here's a breakdown of what makes tRNA soluble and its function:
- Size and Structure: tRNA molecules are relatively small, typically consisting of just 70 to 90 nucleotides. This compact size contributes to their solubility in cellular fluids.
- Adaptor Function: tRNA's main function is to act as an "adaptor." One end of the tRNA molecule carries a specific amino acid, while the other end recognizes a corresponding codon on the mRNA during translation. This specific attachment and recognition is essential for the accurate building of proteins.
- Solubility: Because tRNA molecules are small and not tightly bound to cellular structures, they can move freely within the cytoplasm, hence the term "soluble". This mobility is vital for their role in protein synthesis, allowing them to reach the ribosomes where translation occurs.
Key Features of tRNA
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 70 to 90 nucleotides |
| Other names | Soluble RNA, Activator RNA |
| Function | Carries amino acids, recognizes mRNA codons during translation. |
| Mobility | Highly soluble; moves freely in cytoplasm |
| Adaptor End | Attaches to specified amino acids |
In summary, tRNA is the specific RNA that is known as soluble RNA, due to its size, mobility, and role as an adaptor in protein synthesis. Its solubility is essential for its function in the cell.
