Which one of the statements about translation in eukaryotes is correct?

• A. Translation begins at the poly-A tail of the mRNA.
• B. tRNA molecules do not play a role in translation.
• C. Translation occurs in the nucleus.
• D. The ribosome assembles at the 5' cap of the mRNA.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using mRNA as a template.
2. Recall that in eukaryotes, mRNA is modified with a 5' cap and a poly-A tail after transcription.
3. Recognize that the 5' cap is crucial for the initiation of translation, as it helps the ribosome identify the starting point on the mRNA.
4. Note that tRNA molecules are essential for translation, as they bring amino acids to the ribosome and match them to the codons on the mRNA.
5. Remember that translation occurs in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, not in the nucleus, as the mRNA must exit the nucleus to be translated.