Synonymous Codons: Choose Wisely for Expression.

Christina E Brule, Elizabeth J Grayhack

Journal: Trends in genetics : TIG 2017;33(4):283-297

PMID: 28292534

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Abstract

The genetic code, which defines the amino acid sequence of a protein, also contains information that influences the rate and efficiency of translation. Neither the mechanisms nor functions of codon-mediated regulation were well understood. The prevailing model was that the slow translation of codons decoded by rare tRNAs reduces efficiency. Recent genome-wide analyses have clarified several issues. Specific codons and codon combinations modulate ribosome speed and facilitate protein folding. However, tRNA availability is not the sole determinant of rate; rather, interactions between adjacent codons and wobble base pairing are key. One mechanism linking translation efficiency and codon use is that slower decoding is coupled to reduced mRNA stability. Changes in tRNA supply mediate biological regulationfor instance,, changes in tRNA amounts facilitate cancer metastasis.

Address: Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA; Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].

DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.02.001

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MeSH Terms: Amino Acid Sequence, Base Pairing, Codon, Gene Expression Regulation, Genetic Code, Protein Biosynthesis, RNA Stability, RNA, Transfer, Ribosomes, Silent Mutation