SAT II Biology E : Translation

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT II Biology E

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Translation

In eukaryotes, translation of mRNA into a polypeptide is performed by what type of ribosome if the polypeptide is to be secreted from the cell?

Possible Answers:

A ribosome bound to the smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Cytosolic ribosome

A ribosome bound to the rough endoplasmic reticulum

A ribosome bound to the plasma membrane

A ribosome in the fluid of the nucleus

Correct answer:

A ribosome bound to the rough endoplasmic reticulum

Explanation:

The correct answer is a ribosome bound to the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The rough endoplasmic reticulum is covered with bound ribosomes, giving it its “rough” appearance. Proteins that are to be secreted from the cell are translated by ribosomes in the rough ER before moving through the Golgi apparatus and eventually ending up in a vesicle to be secreted from the cell. There are no ribosomes found in the nucleus, bound to smooth ER, or bound to the plasma membrane.

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