transfer RNA

American  

noun

Genetics.

1. a small RNA molecule, consisting of a strand of nucleotides folded into a clover-leaf shape, that picks up an unattached amino acid within the cell cytoplasm and conveys it to the ribosome for protein synthesis. tRNA

---

transfer RNA British  

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: t-RNA.  Also called: soluble RNA.  biochem any of several soluble forms of RNA of low molecular weight, each of which transports a specific amino acid to a ribosome during protein synthesis See also messenger RNA genetic code

---

transfer RNA Scientific  

/ trăns′fər /

1. See under RNA

---

Etymology

Origin of transfer RNA

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

It alters transfer RNA, the molecules responsible for helping cells interpret DNA and produce proteins correctly.

From Science Daily • Apr. 7, 2026

Dr. Klug also worked on another molecule of fundamental importance, transfer RNA, and later in his career worked on proteins called zinc fingers, which are involved in switching genes off and on.

From Washington Post • Nov. 24, 2018

There are three main types of RNA involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA, ribosomal RNA, and transfer RNA.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

Chan, P. P. & Lowe, T. M. GtRNAdb: a database of transfer RNA genes detected in genomic sequence.

From Nature • Nov. 28, 2017

Toward the end of the blastula stage "transfer" RNA synthesis is first detected; this is followed a few hours later, during the formation of the gastrula, by the synthesis of ribosomal RNA.

From Scientific American • Oct. 9, 2012