Polyribosome

Definition

A polyribosome, or polysome, is a complex formed by multiple ribosomes simultaneously translating a single mRNA strand. This structure allows for efficient and rapid synthesis of multiple copies of a protein.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polyribosomes increase the efficiency of protein synthesis by allowing multiple ribosomes to work on a single mRNA molecule at the same time.
2. They can be found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
3. The formation of polyribosomes is crucial for high levels of protein production in cells.
4. Electron microscopy is commonly used to visualize polyribosomes due to their small size.
5. Polyribosome activity can be regulated by factors that influence mRNA stability and ribosome binding.

Review Questions

Related terms

Ribosome:

A molecular machine that facilitates the translation of mRNA into proteins.

mRNA (messenger RNA): A type of RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.

Translation:

The process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using the genetic information encoded in mRNA.