Which part of the tRNA interacts with the mRNA during translation?

The interaction between tRNA and mRNA during translation is a critical step in protein synthesis, and this is primarily facilitated by the anticodon loop of the tRNA. The anticodon loop contains a sequence of three nucleotides that are complementary to the codon sequence on the mRNA. This complementary base pairing between the anticodon and the codon ensures that the correct amino acid is incorporated into the growing polypeptide chain according to the genetic code.

As the ribosome moves along the mRNA during translation, the tRNA’s anticodon pairs with the respective codon on the mRNA strand. This specific interaction is crucial for accurately translating the genetic information encoded in the mRNA into a functional protein.

The acceptor stem is responsible for binding the specific amino acid that corresponds to the anticodon, while the 5' cap of the mRNA plays a role in stability and initiation of translation but does not directly interact with tRNA. The amino acid site is where the tRNA is linked to its respective amino acid but does not participate directly in the interaction with mRNA. Thus, the correctness of identifying the anticodon loop as the part of tRNA that interacts with mRNA highlights its essential role in the translation process.