Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) has protein. Specifically, rRNA molecules combine with proteins to form ribosomes, which are the sites of protein synthesis in cells.
Ribosomes: RNA-Protein Complexes
Ribosomes are essential cellular components composed of two subunits: a large subunit and a small subunit. Each subunit contains both rRNA and ribosomal proteins.
- Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): The most abundant type of RNA within a cell, rRNA plays a critical role in ribosome structure and function.
- Ribosomal Proteins: These proteins bind to the rRNA molecules, contributing to the overall stability and activity of the ribosome.
Function of Ribosomes
Ribosomes are the workbenches where messenger RNA (mRNA) is translated into proteins. The ribosome binds to mRNA and uses the genetic code to assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain, which then folds into a functional protein.
In summary, ribosomes, which are composed of rRNA and protein, are the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. Therefore, ribosomal RNA (rRNA) inherently exists in a complex with proteins within ribosomes.
