Cell Biology and Development Studies

Ribosome

---

A ribosome is a sophisticated molecular apparatus situated in living cells that creates protein from amino acids by a process called protein synthesis and translation. The process of synthesizing proteins is a fundamental activity carried out by all living cells. Ribosomes are distinct cellular organelles present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Each living cell needs a ribosome for protein synthesis. This cell organelle also operates by attaching to a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and interpreting the data conveyed by the nucleotide sequence of the mRNA. Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) carrying amino acids enter the ribosome at the acceptor site. After it becomes attached, it incorporates an amino acid into the expanding protein chain on tRNA. A ribosome is a combination of RNA and protein and is consequently referred to as a ribonucleoprotein. It consists of two subunits, the smaller and the larger. The smaller subunit is the site where mRNA attaches and is translated, while in the larger subunit, the amino acids are incorporated. Each of the subunits is connected via interactions between the rRNAs in one subunit and the proteins found in the other subunit. Ribosome constructs amino acids to produce proteins essential for executing cellular functions. Genetic material produces mRNA via the process of transcription. The mRNA is produced in the nucleus and shifted to the cytoplasm to produce proteins. The cytoplasmic ribosomal subunits are linked to mRNA chains. The tRNA then synthesizes proteins. Ribosomes act as the site for synthesis of proteins. The proteins generated in the cytoplasm are utilized inside the cytoplasm.