Ribosome
Assembles amino acids into proteins; found on ER and freely floating throughout cell
Ribosomes are small organelles found in all living cells. They are responsible for protein synthesis or translation of mRNA (messenger RNA) into proteins. Ribosomes consist of two subunits, a large and a small subunit, and are made up of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins.
During translation, ribosomes bind to mRNA to read the genetic code and use transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules to bring the amino acids in the correct sequence to build a protein chain. Each three-letter sequence of mRNA (codon) codes for one specific amino acid, which is added to the growing protein chain. Ribosomes continue to move along the mRNA until they reach the stop codon, where protein synthesis is terminated.
Ribosomes can be found free in the cytoplasm, or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in eukaryotic cells. Free ribosomes synthesize proteins that will remain inside the cell, while ribosomes attached to the ER produce proteins that will be transported outside of the cell or to other organelles.
Overall, ribosomes play a critical role in protein synthesis, which is essential for all living cells to carry out their functions and maintain life.
More Answers:
Understanding No De Novo Synthesis in Metabolic Pathways.Understanding DNA Polymerases: Directionality, Specificity, and Replication.
Unlocking the Power of Enzymes: Key Catalysts in Medicine, Industry, and Biology