In prokaryotes, which of the following sequences is responsible for initiating translation?

• A. Kozak sequence
• B. Initiation sequence
• C. Shine-delgarno sequence
• D. Elongation sequence

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of translation initiation in prokaryotes: Translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using mRNA as a template. Initiation is the first step where the ribosome assembles around the target mRNA.
2. Identify the key sequences involved in translation initiation: In prokaryotes, the Shine-Dalgarno sequence is crucial for the initiation of translation. It is a ribosomal binding site in the mRNA, located upstream of the start codon.
3. Learn about the Shine-Dalgarno sequence: This sequence is rich in purines (adenine and guanine) and is complementary to a region on the 16S rRNA of the small ribosomal subunit, allowing the ribosome to bind to the mRNA.
4. Differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic initiation sequences: The Kozak sequence is a eukaryotic consensus sequence that plays a similar role in translation initiation, but it is not found in prokaryotes.
5. Recognize the importance of the Shine-Dalgarno sequence: It ensures that the ribosome is correctly positioned to start translation at the start codon, which is typically AUG, ensuring accurate protein synthesis.