Fidelity during bacterial protein synthesis

SUMMARY Translational fidelity is maintained throughout evolution and ensures the accurate flow of genetic information from mRNA to protein. Both aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and ribosomes use substrate selection and proofreading to lower translational errors. However, genetic mutations and environmental changes frequently alter translational fidelity. Recent technological advances have enabled sensitive detection of translational errors and high-throughput screening of conditions that alter translational fidelity. With a focus on Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica , this article reviews the methods used to quantitate translational errors in vivo , the impact of various stresses and metabolic changes on translational fidelity, and the effects of altered translational fidelity on evolution, stress adaptation, and bacteria-host interactions.