eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF)

Eukaryotic translation initiation factors (eIFs) are proteins that play a crucial role in starting the process of making proteins in cells. They help assemble the machinery needed to read genetic instructions from messenger RNA (mRNA) and correctly position the small and large parts of the protein-building complex, known as ribosomes. By coordinating this process, eIFs ensure proteins are produced accurately and efficiently, which is essential for cell function and health. Essentially, eIFs are the building blocks that kick-start the production line of proteins in eukaryotic cells.