Question

What is the function of ribosomes? Where in the cell are they found? Are they limited to eukaryotic cells?

Short answer

The function of ribosomes is to facilitate protein synthesis by providing a platform for messenger RNA (mRNA) translation and ensuring the correct assembly of amino acids into functional proteins. Ribosomes are found in the cytoplasm and endoplasmic reticulum of a cell, as well as within mitochondria and chloroplasts of eukaryotic cells. Ribosomes are not limited to eukaryotic cells; they are present in prokaryotic cells too (e.g., bacteria and archaea) and are a universal cellular component for all living organisms. The main difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic ribosomes is their size and structure, with eukaryotic ribosomes being larger and more complex.

Step-by-step solution

Function of Ribosomes

Ribosomes are small cellular structures made up of proteins and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Their primary function is to facilitate the process of protein synthesis, which is the assembly of amino acids into functional proteins. They do this by providing a platform for messenger RNA (mRNA) translation, ensuring the correct order of transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules carrying amino acids to form a polypeptide chain.

Location of Ribosomes in the Cell

Ribosomes can be found in both the cytoplasm and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of a cell. Those found in the cytoplasm are called free ribosomes, and they primarily synthesize proteins that remain inside the cell. Those attached to the ER, known as membrane-bound ribosomes, produce proteins that will either be incorporated into cell membranes or secreted out of the cell. In addition, ribosomes can be found within the mitochondria and chloroplasts of eukaryotic cells.

Ribosomes in Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells

Ribosomes are not limited to eukaryotic cells, as they are also found in prokaryotic cells (such as bacteria and archaea). In fact, ribosomes are a universal cellular component necessary for protein synthesis in all living organisms. The main difference between ribosomes in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells is their size and structure – eukaryotic ribosomes are slightly larger and more complex compared to their prokaryotic counterparts.