Which RNA forms the core of the ribosome and is essential for function?

Which RNA forms the core of the ribosome and is essential for function?

• A. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)
• B. Messenger RNA (mRNA)
• C. Transfer RNA (tRNA)
• D. MicroRNA

Answer: (A)

Ribosomal RNA forms the core of the ribosome and is essential for its function because it provides the catalytic center that actually forms peptide bonds and creates the ribosome’s structural framework. The peptidyl transferase activity is carried out by the rRNA itself, making the ribosome a ribozyme. Proteins in the ribosome mainly stabilize this structure, but the RNA component is what drives chemistry and organization of the translation machinery. Messenger RNA serves as the template for protein synthesis, but it is not part of the ribosome’s core. Transfer RNA delivers amino acids to the ribosome, guiding the sequence but not forming the catalytic center. MicroRNA regulates gene expression and is not a structural or catalytic component of the ribosome.

Ribosomal RNA forms the core of the ribosome and is essential for its function because it provides the catalytic center that actually forms peptide bonds and creates the ribosome’s structural framework. The peptidyl transferase activity is carried out by the rRNA itself, making the ribosome a ribozyme. Proteins in the ribosome mainly stabilize this structure, but the RNA component is what drives chemistry and organization of the translation machinery.

Messenger RNA serves as the template for protein synthesis, but it is not part of the ribosome’s core. Transfer RNA delivers amino acids to the ribosome, guiding the sequence but not forming the catalytic center. MicroRNA regulates gene expression and is not a structural or catalytic component of the ribosome.