Molecular Genetics

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Initiation of translation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes share numerous features, but differ in others:

• The AUG codon is the principal initiation codon in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
• It is recognized by a special tRNA for methionine.
• The met tRNA is N-formylated in prokaryotes, but not eukaryotes.
• A special context helps select the correct AUG in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
• Most initiation events in eukaryotes require the capped 5' end, while in prokaryotes the 5' end is unimportant for initiation.
• Polycistrony is common in prokaryotes and known, but rare, eukaryotes