RRNA

Definition

rRNA, or ribosomal RNA, is a type of RNA that, together with proteins, makes up the ribosomes. Ribosomes are the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. rRNA is essential for the proper alignment of mRNA and tRNAs within the ribosome during translation.
2. There are three main types of rRNA in prokaryotes: 16S, 23S, and 5S.
3. The rRNA genes are highly conserved across different species, making them useful for phylogenetic studies.
4. Eukaryotic ribosomes have four types of rRNA: 18S, 5.8S, 28S, and 5S.
5. rRNA catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids during protein synthesis.

Review Questions

• What role does rRNA play in the process of translation?
• How many types of rRNA are found in prokaryotic ribosomes?
• Why are rRNA genes used in phylogenetic studies?

Related terms

mRNA: Messenger RNA that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome.

tRNA: Transfer RNA that brings amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

Ribosome: Cellular structure where protein synthesis occurs; composed of rRNA and proteins.