How is translation terminated during protein synthesis?

Translation is terminated during protein synthesis when the ribosome encounters a stop codon on the messenger RNA (mRNA). Stop codons are specific sequences of three nucleotides (UAA, UAG, UGA) that signal the end of the amino acid chain being synthesized. When the ribosome reads a stop codon, no corresponding transfer RNA (tRNA) exists to add more amino acids to the chain. Instead, release factors bind to the ribosome, prompting the release of the newly synthesized protein and disassembly of the ribosomal complex. This mechanism is crucial for ensuring that proteins are synthesized accurately and that their synthesis halts when a complete polypeptide chain has been formed.