translation repressor activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Antagonizes ribosome-mediated translation of mRNA into a polypeptide. [GOC:ai, GOC:clt]

Translation repressor activity refers to the ability of a protein or RNA molecule to inhibit the process of translation, which is the synthesis of proteins from messenger RNA (mRNA). This inhibition can occur at different stages of the translation process, including:

* **Initiation:** Repressors can bind to the 5' untranslated region (UTR) of mRNA, preventing the ribosome from associating with the mRNA and initiating translation. This can be done by blocking the binding of the small ribosomal subunit (40S) to the mRNA or by interfering with the formation of the initiation complex.
* **Elongation:** Repressors can bind to the mRNA during the elongation phase of translation, hindering the movement of the ribosome along the mRNA. This can lead to premature termination of translation or a decrease in the rate of protein synthesis.
* **Termination:** Repressors can interfere with the recognition of stop codons, preventing the release of the newly synthesized polypeptide chain from the ribosome.

Translation repressors play crucial roles in regulating gene expression, ensuring that proteins are produced only when and where they are needed. They can control the levels of specific proteins in response to various signals, such as environmental changes, developmental cues, or stress conditions.

There are several mechanisms by which proteins or RNA molecules can exert translation repressor activity:

* **Direct binding to mRNA:** Some repressors directly bind to specific sequences in the mRNA, blocking the ribosome's access to the translation initiation site or interfering with other steps of translation.
* **Recruitment of other factors:** Repressors can interact with other proteins or RNA molecules that directly inhibit translation. For example, some repressors can recruit microRNAs (miRNAs) to the mRNA, leading to its degradation or translational repression.
* **Altering mRNA structure:** Certain repressors can induce conformational changes in the mRNA, preventing it from being translated efficiently.

Translation repressor activity is a fundamental aspect of gene regulation, and its dysregulation can contribute to various diseases. Understanding the mechanisms of translation repression is essential for developing new therapeutic strategies targeting gene expression.'
"

Proteins (1)

Compounds (21)