'Chiral proofreading' during protein synthesis

"The genetic code in the form of DNA is transcribed to RNA and then translated to proteins. During the process of translation, errors occur more frequently during amino acid selection by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) and are proofread. Compromise in proofreading activity is responsible for disease conditions like neurodegeneration. We identified a proofreading domain that resembles an enzyme that removes D-amino acids from transfer-RNAs (DTDs) and it allowed us to propose a model for perpetuation of homochirality in proteins i.e. presence of only L-amino acids. I will present our recent findings on  a crucial 'chiral proofreading' mechanism by which D-amino acids are prevented from infiltrating the translational machinery. The implications of these findings on the early evolution of homochirality as well as the importance of the current role of D-exclusionary systems in higher organisms will be highlighted."