Mitochondria contain a complete translation machinery that is used to translate its internally transcribed mRNAs. This machinery uses a distinct set of tRNAs that are charged with cognate amino acids inside the organelle. Interestingly, charging is executed by aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (aaRS) that are encoded by the nuclear genome, translated in the cytosol, and need to be imported into the mitochondria. Here, we review import mechanisms of these enzymes with emphasis on those that are localized to both mitochondria and cytosol. Furthermore, we describe RNA recognition features of these enzymes and their interaction with tRNA and non-tRNA molecules. The dual localization of mitochondria-destined aaRSs and their association with various RNA types impose diverse impacts on cellular physiology. Yet, the breadth and significance of these functions are not fully resolved. We highlight here possibilities for future explorations.

中文翻译：

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线粒体氨酰 tRNA 合成酶的定位和 RNA 结合

线粒体包含一个完整的翻译机制，用于翻译其内部转录的 mRNA。这种机制使用一组独特的 tRNA，这些 tRNA 在细胞器内带有同源氨基酸。有趣的是，充电是由氨酰 tRNA 合成酶 (aaRS) 执行的，这些酶由核基因组编码，在细胞质中翻译，并需要输入到线粒体中。在这里，我们回顾了这些酶的导入机制，重点是那些定位于线粒体和细胞质的酶。此外，我们描述了这些酶的 RNA 识别特征以及它们与 tRNA 和非 tRNA 分子的相互作用。以线粒体为目的地的 aaRS 的双重定位及其与各种 RNA 类型的关联对细胞生理学产生了不同的影响。然而，这些功能的广度和意义尚未完全解决。我们在这里强调未来探索的可能性。