10

Science
Quarter 3 – Module 4:
Protein Synthesis

CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 What I Need to Know

“Our own genomes carry the story of evolution, written in DNA, the language
of molecular genetics, and the narrative is unmistakable.”
-Kenneth R. Miller

The quote above reflects the importance of studying the DNA and genetics.
In this module, you are going to learn about protein synthesis. What first comes to
your mind when you encounter the term ‘protein’? You might be thinking of food
like egg, chicken and fish. You are correct! All of these foods contain protein
because proteins are one of the biomolecules inside cells, and they compose a
number of structures and perform various functions inside cells. Without proteins,
the cells cannot perform certain processes which may lead to death. The cells are
constantly making new proteins as required by our body. This is accomplished
through a process called protein synthesis.
So, how is protein made? What makes up proteins? This module will introduce
you to the structures in the cells and the processes involved in making proteins.
Have fun while learning from this module so that after completing this, you would
be able to:

1. Explain how protein is made using information from DNA (S10LTIIId-37).

Going through this module can be a meaningful learning experience. All you
need to do is make use of your time and resources efficiently. To do this, here are
some tips for you:

1. Take the pretest before reading the rest of the module.

2. Take time in reading and understanding the lesson. Follow instructions
carefully. Do all activities diligently. This module is designed for independent
or self-paced study. It is better to be slow but sure than to hurry and miss the
concepts you are supposed to learn.
3. Use a clean sheet of paper for your answers in each activity/ assessment.
Don’t forget to write your name. Label it properly.
4. Try to recall and connect the ideas about Life Science that you had in the
lower years. Use the concept discussed in the lesson to explain the results of
activities or performance task. You may answer in English or a combination
of your vernacular and English.
5. Be honest. When doing the activities, record only what you have really
observed. Take the self-assessments after each activity, but do not turn to
the Answer Key page unless you are done with the entire module.
6. Don’t hesitate to ask. If you need to clarify something, approach or contact
your teacher or any knowledgeable person available to help you. You may also
look into other references for further information. There is a list of references
at the back part of this module.

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 7. Take the posttest prepared at the end of the module, so you can assess how
much you have learned from this module.
8. You can check your answers in the activities, self-assessments, and posttest
after you finished the entire module to know how much you have gained
from the lesson and the activities.

Lesson

2 Protein Synthesis

What’s In

What is protein synthesis? How can the genes in the DNA be translated into
proteins?
Let’s begin with these examples. What body parts are pointed at? Use separate
sheet of paper for your answer.

___r N___s

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Yes, you got them right!

Our hair, skin and nails are made up of proteins.

2 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

What are proteins? They are composed of amino acids linked together by peptide
bonds.
What are the roles and functions of proteins?
 channels in membranes – control the movement of molecules in and out of the
cell
 structural molecules – for example, making up hair or muscle in animals
 hormones – to regulate the activity of cells
 antibodies – in the immune system
 enzymes – to act as catalysts in biological systems.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) work together to produce
proteins from genetic codes. Genetic codes are found in DNA or RNA which is made up
of nucleotide bases usually in three’s (triplet) that code for the amino acids making up
the proteins.
DNA vs. RNA – A Comparison Chart

Before we proceed, let’s recall what you have learned in Grade 9 about the structure,
components and function of DNA. To check if you are ready for our new lesson,
complete the table below by writing the correct words/description about RNA or DNA.
Choose the words from the box below.

 Double stranded helix

 Single stranded
 Sugar deoxyribose, phosphate and nucleotide basis
 Sugar ribose, phosphate and nucleotide basis
 A, T, C, G
 A, U, C, G
 Stores genetic materials
 Functions in protein synthesis transcribing and translating the genetic
code

Comparison DNA RNA

Structure

Components

Function

3 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 What’s New

Directions: Fill in the complimentary DNA strand using DNA base pairing rules.
The first three nitrogenous bases were paired already and given as examples.

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Congratulations! You have just simulated a part of the transcription stage wherein
DNA’s template is made, so that mRNA can copy the template for the protein
synthesis. Now that you have accomplished this activity, you can now move on to the
next challenge, which is the DNAmazing Challenge! Let’s learn more about the stages
and process of protein synthesis! Good luck!

What Is It
DNAmazing Challenge!

Before we proceed, let us talk about the different types of ribonucleic acids and their
functions.

There are 3 types of RNA:

1. Messenger RNA (mRNA)
- transcribes the DNA nucleotide bases to RNA nucleotide bases
2. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)
- binds the mRNA and tRNA to ensure that codons are translated correctly
3. Transfer RNA (tRNA)
- translates the mRNA codons into the correct amino acids

There are two stages of protein synthesis:

1. Transcription
2. Translation

To further understand the protein synthesis, let’s talk about genetic code.
Genetic codes are found in DNA or RNA which is made up of nucleotide bases usually
in three’s (triplet) that code for the amino acids making up the proteins. Specifically,

4 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

the DNA genetic codes have mRNA codon counterparts determined during
transcription. The mRNA codons code for specific amino acids (Table 1).

Table 1. mRNA Codon Chart

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/97216967@N04/9723142289

Important Codons:
Start Codons: AUG (starts the translation stage);
Stop Codons: UAG, UGA, UAA (stops the translation stage).
When the ribosome reads the start codon, AUG, it will present the codons to
the tRNA for translation stage to begin.
To deepen our understanding about how proteins in our body are made,
let’s have an activity called DNAmazing Challenge!

What you need:

 work sheet
 sheet of paper
 ball pen

This is an activity for you to understand more about the processes that are
involved in protein synthesis. Just follow the instructions and surely, you will easily
accomplish this activity. Good luck!

1. Study the figures carefully and read the captions very well. Get a sheet of paper
for your answers and observation. Each figure has captions and labels. Study and
analyze what the figure is all about by reading the captions and the labels.

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 After that, there will be guide questions about the figure. Do not copy the
questions, just write down your answer or observations about the figure.
2. Figure 1 illustrates transcription, which is the first phase in protein synthesis.
Study Figure 1 to help you answer the following questions:

Figure 1. Transcription
Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

2.1. What happens to the DNA during transcription?

A. The DNA unzips.
B. The DNA does not unzip.
2.2. Which enzyme unzips the DNA?
A. RNA polymerase
B. mRNA
2.3. What happens after the DNA is unzipped?
A. The mRNA copies the DNA template.
B. The mRNA connects the DNA together.
2.4. What are “start codons” for?

Transcription occurs inside the nucleus, and it is the first step in gene
expression.
In transcription stage of protein synthesis, the DNA unzips through the help
of enzymes called RNA polymerases. They combine nucleotides to form an RNA
strand (using one of the DNA strands as a template).

3. Figure 2 shows an mRNA exiting the nucleus. Study the figure to help you answer
the following questions:

6 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 Figure 2. mRNA exiting the nucleus
Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

3.1. Why does the newly synthesized mRNA go out of the nucleus after transcription?
A. The next phase in protein synthesis occurs in the cytoplasm.
B. The nucleus cannot accommodate the newly synthesized mRNA.
3.2. What happens after the mRNA goes out of the nucleus?
A. The codons are translated to produce proteins.
B. The codons are transcribed from amino acids.

For a protein-coding gene, the messenger RNA carries the information needed
to build a polypeptide. The messenger RNA (mRNA) is the RNA form of the gene that
leaves the nucleus through the nuclear pore and moves to the cytoplasm where
proteins are made. Take note, transcription is the process wherein the DNA sequence
of a gene is "rewritten" using RNA nucleotides.
Now, let’s take a look on the next stage which is called translation.

4. Figure 3 depicts the initial stage in translation, which is the second phase of
protein synthesis. This involves the complementary pairing of codons in mRNA
with anticodons in tRNA; a process that is facilitated by the ribosome. Study the
figure to help you answer the following questions:

Figure 3. Initiation stage of translation

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

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4.1. What are the two subunits of the ribosome?
4.2. What are the two sites in the large subunit of the ribosome?

4.3 Which part of the large subunit of the ribosome accommodates tRNA?

4.4. What do you call the codes that are carried by tRNA?
A. anticodons
B. codons
4.5. Translation is the process where proteins are synthesized from the codes in the
mRNA. Which molecule is carried by tRNA and corresponds to the codons in
mRNA?
A. amino acid
B. glucose
4.6. Why does complementary pairing of codons and anticodons occur during
translation?
A. This ensures that the amino acid carried by the tRNA corresponds to the
codons.
B. The pairing allows anticodons to select the codons to be translated.

The second stage of protein synthesis is translation. It is where the codes in

the messenger RNA is translated to a polypeptide that contains a specific series of
amino acids. Amino acid bonds with each other to form polypeptides which make up
proteins.
So, let’s take a look on the first stage of translation which is initiation. In this
stage of translation, the ribosome sandwiches the mRNA between its small and large
subunit to be translated. The first codon that will be read is AUG that is called the
start codon, and consequently codes for the amino acid methionine.

5. Figure 4 shows the elongation stage in translation. Study the figure to help you
answer the following questions:

5.1 What happens as the ribosome moves along the mRNA?

5.2 Which covalent chemical bond connects the adjacent amino acids to form a
protein or peptide?

8 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 Figure 4. Elongation stage of translation
Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Elongation is the second stage in translation where the amino acid chain
gets longer. In this stage, messenger RNA reads one codon at a time. Then, the
amino acid corresponding each codon is added to a growing polypeptide chain.
Remember, genetic codes are found in DNA or RNA which is made up of nucleotide
bases usually in three’s (triplet) that code for the amino acids making up the
proteins. Specifically, the DNA genetic codes have mRNA codon counterparts
determined during transcription. The mRNA codons code for specific amino acids.

Each time a new codon is read, a matching transfer RNA gets into the
ribosomes carrying the anticodon and the corresponding amino acid of the mRNA
codon. Amino acids are connected with each other by peptide bonds becoming a
polypeptide.

During elongation, transfer RNAs move through the A and P sites of the
ribosome, as shown above. This process repeats many times as new codons are
translated and new amino acids are added to the polypeptide chain.

6. Figure 5 shows the termination stage in translation. Study the figure to help you
answer the following questions:
6.1 When is translation terminated?
6.2 What is the product of translation phase?
A. carbohydrate
B. protein

9 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 Figure 5. Termination stage in translation
Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Termination is the last stage of translation. It is where the finished

polypeptide is released. It starts when a stop codon (UAG, UAA, or UGA) is read by
the ribosome, activating a series of events that stop translation and disassemble the
subunits of the ribosomal RNA.
The polypeptide produced in this stage will be processed further before it
becomes a functional protein.

Figure 7. Protein Synthesis

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

10 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 What’s More
Since you have accepted and conquered the DNAmazing challenge a while ago,
here are some enrichment activities for you to strengthen the basic concepts you
have learned from our mini-lesson and to validate your observations in the activity
part.

Column A Column B

1. Amino acids A. It copies the DNA’s codes.

B. mRNA triplet of nucleotide bases
2. Proteins that code for an amino acid.
3. DNA C. They are composed of amino
acids linked together by peptide
4. mRNA bonds.
D. They are the building blocks of
5. Codons proteins
E. It is a double-helical molecule
that contains the genetic codes.
Directions: Explain the concepts pertaining to protein synthesis by doing this
Frayer Model. Write key terms and examples for each box. For the diagram box, you
can draw a flowchart or a concept map that will help you remember the protein
synthesis.

Formal definition here (copy from

text) Importance (in your own words)

PROTEIN
SYNTHESIS
Analogy of protein synthesis to
a process. Diagram to help you remember the
stages and sub-stages

Scoring Unacceptable (0) Needs Improvement Proficient (4)

Criteria (2)
Definition
Does not clearly Clearly communicates Clearly
communicate the meaning apportion of the communicates the
of the word or concept meaning of the word or full meaning of the
concept word or concept
Facts Lists at least three
Does not list an accurate Lists one to two
fact about the word or accurate facts about facts about the
concept the word or concept word or concept

Illustration/ Does not provide an Provides an illustration Provides an

Diagram illustration that reflects that reflects some illustration that
understanding of the word understanding of the reflects
or concept word or concept understanding of
the word or concept
Sentence Does not include a Provides a sentence Provides a sentence
sentence/key term that reflects some that reflects
understanding of the understanding of
word or concept the word or concept

11 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

Can you “fill” me
Directions:

Step 1. Fill in the correct mRNA bases by transcribing the bottom DNA strand.
Step 2. Translate the mRNA codons.

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Step 3. Write in the anti-codon of the tRNA and the corresponding amino acids.
Step 4. Find the correct amino acid using the Codon Chart.

Table 1. mRNA Codon Chart

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/97216967@N04/9723142289
Step 5. Answer the questions below about protein synthesis.

1. What stage of protein synthesis does step 1 illustrate?

2. What stage of protein synthesis do steps 2 and 3 illustrate?

12 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 What I Have Learned
Great job! You are almost done with this module. Let us
summarize what you have learned from the lesson and activities by choosing the
correct word inside the parentheses. Use a separate sheet of paper for your answer.
1-3. (Proteins, Nucleic acids) are composed of (amino acids, glucose) linked
together by (hydrogen bonds, peptide bonds). Proteins function as channels in
membranes, structural molecules, hormones and enzymes.
4-6. (DNA, RNA) consists of two strands, arranged in a double helix. These
strands are made up of subunits called (nucleotides, glyceraldehyde).
RNA only has one strand, but like DNA, is made up of nucleotides. The bases
in RNA are adenine, (thymine, uracil), guanine and cytosine.
7-9. The first type of RNA is the (messenger RNA, transfer RNA) which
transcribes the DNA and will be read by the ribosomes for translation. The
(ribosomal RNA, transfer RNA), with protein, makes up the ribosomes, and the
(ribosomal RNA, transfer RNA) carries anticodon and amino acid to translate the
codons to polypeptide.
10-12. There are two phases in protein synthesis. First is transcription,
where the (DNA, mRNA) code will be copied into (DNA, mRNA). Second is
translation where the (DNA, mRNA) is "decoded" to build a polypeptide that
contains specific series of amino acids. The polypeptide will be processed further to
be a functional protein.
13-15. There are three stages of translation. First, (initiation, elongation,
termination), where the ribosome assembles around the mRNA to be read. Next is
the (initiation, elongation, termination), where the amino acid chain gets longer and
lastly, (initiation, elongation, termination) where the finished polypeptide chain is
released.

As a conclusion, protein synthesis starts with transcription of DNA into the

messenger RNA or mRNA. This is followed by translation where the mRNA codons
will base pair with the transfer RNA or tRNA that carries specific amino acids based
on the mRNA codons. These amino acids will be connected by peptide bonds to a
protein. There you have it! I hope you enjoyed our lesson today!

What I Can Do

Activity 1: Protein is essential to the building block of muscles. Muscle protein

synthesis is a naturally occurring process in which protein is produced to repair
muscle damage caused by intense exercise. It is an opposing force to muscle protein
breakdown (MPB) in which protein is lost as a result of exercise. (Source:
https://www.encyclopedia.com/sports/sports-fitness-recreation-and-leisure-
magazines/muscle-protein-synthesis). For example, you are an athlete, and you want
to maintain the strength and mass of your muscles.

13 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

1. How important is protein synthesis in your body?
2. How are you going to boost the protein synthesis in your body? How are you going
to boost the amount of essential amino acids and proteins in your body?
Activity 2: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic disorder that causes the abnormal
metabolism of the amino acid called phenylalanine. PKU is an autosomal recessive
disease due to a mutation in the gene encoding the enzyme phenylalanine
hydroxylase. Phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) usually converts excess
phenylalanine into tyrosine. In persons with PKU, the remaining phenylalanine is
instead converted into phenylpyruvate (also known as phenylketone). This results in
a poisonous build-up of phenylketone in the blood and urine that is why it is called
phenylketonuria. When PKU is untreated, it can lead to brain damage, mental
retardation and other serious medical problems.
Babies with PKU are normal at birth due to the mother’s ability to break
down phenylalanine during pregnancy. PKU can be diagnosed through a simple
blood test for elevated phenylalanine levels shortly after birth.

Illustrator: Jayson A. De Guzman

Answer the following questions:

1. What is phenylketonuria (PKU)? How important is the synthesis of correct
proteins?
2. How can PKU be treated in relation to the diet or intake of phenylalanine?
Standards Rubric
Appropriateness of Topic :10 points
Accuracy of Details and Information :5 points
Techniques (persuasiveness/humor in words/English or vernacular) :5 points
TOTAL - : 20 points
Good job! You are now ready to have your posttest. You may want to go over again
the lessons and activities to review for the final assessment. God bless you!

14 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

 Assessment

Directions: Read each question carefully. Choose the letter of the correct answer.
Use a separate sheet of paper for your answers.

1. Which molecule carries a copy of the genetic information out of the nucleus?
A. amino acid mRNA C. rRNA
B. mRNA D. tRNA
2. What do you call the sequence of three bases in mRNA that corresponds to an
amino acid?
A. amino acid C. code
B. anticodon D. codon
3. What do you call the sequence of three bases in tRNA that corresponds to an
amino acids?
A. amino acid C. code
B. anticodon D. codon

4. Where does transcription take place?

A. Golgi bodies C. nucleus
B. mitochondria D. ribosome

5. Which of the following is directly involved in translation phase of protein

synthesis?
A. cytoplasm C. nucleus
B. mitochondria D. ribosome

6. Which of the following is carried by the transfer RNA (tRNA)?

A. amino acid C. nucleic acid
B. DNA D. ribosome

7. Which of the following is NOT a part of protein synthesis?

A. elongation C. transcription
B. replication D. translation

8. In the RNA molecule, which nitrogen base is found in place of thymine?

A. cytosine C. thymine
B. guanine D. uracil

9. During the process of transcription, which of the following is produced?

A. ATP C. H2O
B. DNA D. mRNA

15 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4

10. If the DNA template reads “ATA”, which of the following would be the
corresponding mRNA codon?
A. ATA C. UAU
B. TUT D. UCU

11. The genetic code is based upon the reading of how many bases at a time?
A. one C. three
B. two D. four

12. Amino acids are held together by bonds.

A. hydrogen C. high energy
B. ionic D. peptide

13. How many codons are needed to specify three amino acids?
A. 3 C. 9
B. 6 D. 12

14. Which of the following is a similarity between DNA and messenger RNA
molecules? They both contain
A. uracil
B. double-stranded polymers
C. phosphates
D. the same sugar

15. Events that take place during the synthesis of a specific protein are listed
below.
A. Messenger RNA attaches to a ribosome.
B. DNA serves as a template for the production of RNA.
C. Transfer RNA bonds to a specific codon.
D. Amino acids are bonded together.
E. RNA exits from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.

The correct order of these events is

A. B E A C D
B. D A E C B
C. B C E D A
D. C B A E D

Answer Key on Page 21

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17 CO_Q3_Science 10_ Module 4