The translation of the genetic code into functional protein sequences is a feat accomplished in all domains of life by the ribosome. Protein synthesis is a complex multistep process that can be divided into three main phases: initiation, elongation and termination.

During each cycle of elongation, the two-subunit macromolecular machine decodes the mRNA transcripts by carefully selecting the appropriate aminoacyl-tRNA (aa-tRNA) that matches the mRNA codon in the decoding center from a large pool of competing aa-tRNAs.

The long term goal of the Zaher lab is to expand the understanding of the mechanisms that govern translational fidelity as well as learn about their impact on cellular fitness and codon evolution.

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