[Research progress in the mechanism of translation initiation of eukaryotic mRNAs]

The translation of mRNA is a complicated multi-step process, including initiation, elongation and termination. Among them, the regulation of the initial stage plays the key role. There are many ways to initiate mRNA translation, and the most classical way is the m ⁷G cap-dependent scanning mechanism that was also the first mechanism identified. When cells encounter adversity and the classical mechanism is inhibited, other types of translation initiation mechanisms will be activated. In this review, we summarize the translation initiation mechanisms of eukaryotic mRNAs, especially some alternative mechanisms. It will provide a reference for further understanding of the expression and regulation of eukaryotic genes at the translation levels.