What is the end result of translation in the process of gene expression?

• A. A molecule of mRNA
• B. A molecule of tRNA
• C. A polypeptide chain (protein)
• D. A double-stranded DNA molecule

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of translation: Translation is the second major step in gene expression, following transcription. It involves decoding the information in mRNA to synthesize a polypeptide chain (protein).
2. Identify the key components involved in translation: These include mRNA (messenger RNA), tRNA (transfer RNA), ribosomes, and amino acids. Ribosomes facilitate the assembly of amino acids into a polypeptide chain based on the sequence of codons in the mRNA.
3. Recognize the role of tRNA: tRNA molecules carry specific amino acids to the ribosome. Each tRNA has an anticodon that pairs with a complementary codon on the mRNA, ensuring the correct sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain.
4. Understand the steps of translation: Translation occurs in three stages—initiation, elongation, and termination. During initiation, the ribosome assembles around the start codon on the mRNA. During elongation, amino acids are added one by one to the growing polypeptide chain. Termination occurs when a stop codon is reached, signaling the end of translation.
5. Conclude the end result: The final product of translation is a polypeptide chain, which folds into a functional protein. This protein plays various roles in the cell, such as catalyzing reactions, providing structural support, or regulating processes.