Molecular Genetics

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A polypeptide, once its synthesis is terminated on the ribosome, has one or more fates.

• The protein may be cleaved to form the mature protein or peptide.
• Amino acid residues may become modified, such as by addition of other groups.
• The polypeptide must be folded into its active three-dimensional conformation.
• The polypeptide may travel to a destination other than the one in which it was synthesized.
• The polypeptide may be targeted for degradation.

This is page 25 of Molecular Genetics by Ulrich Melcher, © 1997, 1999