What is tRNA's role in protein synthesis?

tRNA, or transfer RNA, plays a crucial role in the process of translation, which is part of protein synthesis. Specifically, tRNA is responsible for transporting amino acids to the ribosome, the molecular machine that assembles proteins. Each tRNA molecule carries a specific amino acid that corresponds to a three-nucleotide sequence known as an anticodon. This anticodon pairs with a complementary codon on the mRNA strand being translated at the ribosome.

As the ribosome moves along the mRNA, tRNA molecules sequentially deliver their respective amino acids, which become linked together by peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain that eventually folds into a functional protein. By facilitating the correct placement of amino acids, tRNA ensures that proteins are synthesized accurately according to the genetic code.

In contrast, the other options describe different processes or functions not associated with tRNA. The synthesis of mRNA from DNA is performed by RNA polymerase. Peptide bond formation is catalyzed by the ribosome's enzymatic activity, specifically by rRNA. The degradation of faulty mRNA is a function of various RNA-binding proteins and enzymes, particularly during quality control processes in the cell.