Introduction Protein translocation is the process in which fully synthesized proteins are transported to the target organelle within the cell. This occurs via the heteromeric conduits of the Endoplasmic reticulum. Protein translocation is significant because it enhances the transportation of specific proteins to target organelles. Types of protein translocation processes include cotranslational translocation in addition to posttranslational translocation. This process takes place in different ways depending type of organism that is eukaryotes and prokaryotes as well as the type of proteins being translocated (Halic, 2005). Types of proteins There are two types of proteins; this includes secretory proteins as well as membrane proteins. Each type of protein has a different targeting signal, for example, cleavable signals target secretory proteins and this causes the proteins to cross the membrane completely. On the other hand, non-cleaved signals target membrane proteins. Non-cleaved signals are also known as transmembrane (TM) segments. The eventual result of this is the integration of TM segments within the lipid bilayer (Halic, 2005). Heteromeric channels The two types of proteins use protein-conducting channels in order for translocation to take place. The occurrence of this channel occurs due to the existence of a preserved heteromeric membrane protein complex. In prokaryotes, this complex is referred to as secY while in eukaryotes it is referred to as sec61. Components of this complex include three subunits namely a, g as well as b-subunits. Each type of subunit has a unique spanning pattern. For example, a-subunit spins within the complex ten times while both g and b-subunits spin within the complex once (Irihmovitch, 2003). The heteromeric channel has a hydrophilic interior as well as a flexible pore. This allows the passage of large chemicals linked to amino acid side chains. Despite this flexibility, this path remains a barrier as the translocation process takes place thus preventing the passage of ions as well as miniature molecules. Another property heteromeric channel is its ability to open laterally. This allows lateral movement of transmembrane proteins from the hydrophilic environment to the outer hydrophobic layer of the lipid bilayer. The capability of the heteromeric channel to open in two different ways i.e., laterally and across discerns it from other conduits. Heteromeric channels have pores with dimensions ranging from 5–8 A ° due to the small size of pores, a mechanism is needed to allow the further opening to facilitate the passing through of large polypeptide chain molecules. This mechanism occurs through lateral dislodgment of helices, which, attaches the pores residues. This property allows the pores to be flexible thus allowing movement of both small and large molecules through (Irihmovitch, 2003). Forms of protein translocation Since the sec61 and secY heteromeric channel is a reflexive pore, it allows polypeptide chains to slide back and forth. This necessitates a driving force that allows protein translocation. This is achieved through associations between the channel and various partners. Due to different partners, translocation is divided into three modes namely cotranslational, translocation, posttranslational translocation as w