The central role of tRNA in genetic code expansion.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The development of orthogonal translation systems (OTSs) for genetic code expansion (GCE) has allowed for the incorporation of a diverse array of non-canonical amino acids (ncAA) into proteins. Transfer RNA, the central molecule in the translation of the genetic message into proteins, plays a significant role in the efficiency of ncAA incorporation.

Scope of review

Here we review the biochemical basis of OTSs for genetic code expansion. We focus on the role of tRNA and discuss strategies used to engineer tRNA for the improvement of ncAA incorporation into proteins.

Major conclusions

The engineering of orthogonal tRNAs for GCE has significantly improved the incorporation of ncAAs. However, there are numerous unintended consequences of orthogonal tRNA enginee

SUBMITTER: Reynolds NM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5603357 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature