What is the role of tRNA in the process of translation?

The role of tRNA (transfer RNA) in the process of translation is to transfer amino acids to the growing polypeptide chain during protein synthesis. tRNA molecules have a specific three-nucleotide sequence called an anticodon that pairs with the corresponding codon on the mRNA strand, ensuring that the correct amino acid is added in the proper sequence dictated by the mRNA. Each tRNA is linked to a specific amino acid which it brings to the ribosome, the site of translation. As the ribosome moves along the mRNA, tRNA molecules sequentially deliver their amino acids, allowing the polypeptide chain to extend and fold into a functional protein.

The other roles mentioned, such as decoding mRNA or modifying the protein chain, are not functions performed by tRNA. Decoding mRNA is primarily the role of ribosomes and the mRNA itself, while modifying the protein chain occurs after translation, often involving other types of proteins and enzymatic processes. Additionally, ribosome creation is not a function of tRNA but is related to ribosomal RNA and other cellular machinery involved in ribosome assembly. Hence, the primary and correct role of tRNA is indeed to transfer amino acids to the protein chain during translation.