How does a ribosome work and what is its composition?

What is the function of a ribosome?

A. Store genetic information

B. Synthesize proteins

C. Produce carbohydrates

D. Break down lipids

Answer:

B. Synthesize proteins

Ribosomes are the cellular machinery responsible for synthesizing proteins. They read the genetic information from messenger RNA (mRNA) and use transfer RNA (tRNA) to assemble amino acids into proteins.

The ribosome consists of two subunits, the large and small subunit, which are made up of a combination of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) molecules and proteins. These components work together to decode genetic information and synthesize proteins.

The large subunit contains three rRNA molecules and around 50 different proteins, while the small subunit contains one rRNA molecule and around 30 different proteins. These proteins help stabilize the structure and position the mRNA for protein synthesis.

Overall, the ribosome is a crucial component in the process of protein synthesis in all living organisms.