The origins and evolution of translation factors

Abstract

Translation is an ancient molecular information processing system found in all living organisms. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in uncovering the origins of early translation. Yet, the evolution of translation factors – key regulators of protein synthesis – remains poorly understood. This review synthesizes recent findings on translation factors, highlighting their structural diversity, evolutionary history, and organism-specific adaptations across the tree of life. We examine conserved translation factors, their coevolution, and their roles in different steps in translation: initiation, elongation, and termination. The early evolution of translation factors serves as a natural link between modern genetics and the origins of life. Traditionally rooted in chemistry and geology, incorporating evolutionary molecular biology into the studies of life’s emergence provides a complementary perspective on this complex question.

Publisher

Cell Press

Publication Date

7-1-2025

Publication Title

Trends in Genetics

Department

Biology

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tig.2025.02.004

Keywords

Translation, Translation factors, Initiation, Elongation, Origins of life, Early life

Language

English

Format

text

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