What does the process of translation accomplish?

The process of translation is fundamental in molecular biology as it converts the genetic information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA) into a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a polypeptide chain, which ultimately folds into a functional protein. During translation, ribosomes read the mRNA in sets of three nucleotides (called codons), and transfer RNA (tRNA) brings appropriate amino acids based on these codons. This process includes initiation, elongation, and termination stages that collectively ensure the proper assembly of amino acids according to the genetic instructions. The outcome is crucial for the synthesis of proteins, which play critical roles in virtually all biological functions.

In contrast, synthesizing RNA from DNA refers to the process of transcription, which is distinct from translation. Assembling nucleotides into RNA is also part of transcription and does not pertain to translation. Altering DNA structures does not relate to the process of translation either, as translation specifically involves the decoding of RNA rather than any modification of DNA itself.