Ribosomes

Ribosomes: The Protein Factories Ribosomes are essential cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. These tiny, granular structures are composed of RNA and protein molecules and are found either free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. Ribosomes play a crucial role in translating genetic information from messenger RNA (mRNA) into functional proteins. During protein synthesis, ribosomes bind to mRNA and move along its length, reading the genetic code in sets of three nucleotides called codons. Each codon corresponds to a specific amino acid, the building blocks of proteins. As ribosomes move along the mRNA strand, they attract transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules carrying the appropriate amino acids, which are then joined together to form a polypeptide chain. This process continues until the ribosome reaches a stop codon, signaling the end of protein synthesis. Ribosomes are highly dynamic structures that can exist in different configurations depending on the cellular environment and metabolic demands. They are essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and are involved in various biological processes, including cell growth, differentiation, and response to environmental stimuli.

A ribosome is an intercellular structure made of both RNA and protein, and it is the site of protein synthesis in the cell.

*THEY ARE DENSE SPHERICAL AND GRANNULAR PARTICLES WHICH OCCUR FREELY IN THE MATRIX OR ARE ATTACHED TO ER. *THEY ARE NOT BOUNDED BY ANY MEMBRANE.