Question

Match the following statements with rRNA, mRNA, or tRNA: a. combines with proteins to form ribosomes b. brings amino acids to the ribosomes for protein synthesis \(\mathbf{c} .\) acts as a template for protein synthesis

Short answer

a: rRNA, b: tRNA, c: mRNA

Step-by-step solution

Identify the molecule for statement 'a'

The statement 'a' says 'combines with proteins to form ribosomes'. Identify which type of RNA is involved in forming ribosomes. This is the role of rRNA (ribosomal RNA), which combines with proteins to form ribosomes.

Identify the molecule for statement 'b'

The statement 'b' says 'brings amino acids to the ribosomes for protein synthesis'. Determine which RNA type attaches to amino acids and transports them to the ribosome. This is the function of tRNA (transfer RNA), which brings amino acids to the ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Identify the molecule for statement 'c'

The statement 'c' says 'acts as a template for protein synthesis'. Figure out the RNA type that serves as a template when translating genetic information into proteins. This corresponds to mRNA (messenger RNA), which serves as a template for protein synthesis.

Key concepts

rRNA

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) forms a vital part of the cell's protein factory known as the ribosome. It combines with proteins to create ribosomes, which are the sites of protein synthesis in the cell. These ribosomes can be found floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, forming what is known as the rough ER.

The primary function of rRNA is to provide a mechanism for decoding mRNA into amino acids and to ensure the proper alignment of the mRNA and tRNA.

• rRNA works as a structural component in ribosomes.
• It plays a direct role in the catalysis of peptide bond formation.
• rRNA helps in aligning the mRNA and tRNA properly during protein synthesis.

Understanding rRNA is essential for a better grasp of how cells produce the proteins needed for different functions and structures.

mRNA

Messenger RNA (mRNA) acts as a genetic blueprint for protein synthesis. It is synthesized in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells during transcription, where it copies the genetic instructions from DNA. Once it is synthesized, mRNA carries this genetic information from the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.

At the ribosome, the mRNA is translated into a specific sequence of amino acids, which fold into functional proteins.

• mRNA serves as a template for protein synthesis.
• It transcribes genetic information from DNA.
• mRNA is decoded by ribosomes to build proteins.

Without mRNA, cells would be unable to produce the proteins necessary for life.

tRNA

Transfer RNA (tRNA) plays a critical role in translating the genetic code carried by mRNA into proteins. Each tRNA molecule carries a specific amino acid that corresponds to a particular mRNA codon.

During protein synthesis, tRNA molecules transport amino acids to the ribosome where they are added to the growing polypeptide chain.

• tRNA picks up and transports specific amino acids to the ribosome.
• Each tRNA has an anticodon that pairs with an mRNA codon.
• This match ensures that the correct amino acid is added to the protein.

The actions of tRNA are vital for translating the coded genetic information into a sequence of amino acids, resulting in the formation of functional proteins.

Protein Synthesis

Protein synthesis is a fundamental process by which cells generate new proteins. It occurs in two main stages: transcription and translation.

Transcription is the first step, where the DNA template is used to create mRNA in the nucleus. This mRNA then carries the genetic code to the ribosome for translation.

Translation takes place in the cytoplasm, where the ribosome reads the mRNA sequence and, with the help of tRNA, assembles the appropriate amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

• Transcription involves copying genetic information from DNA to mRNA.
• During translation, mRNA is decoded to build proteins.
• Ribosomes facilitate the binding of mRNA and tRNA.

Together, these processes allow the cell to produce proteins that are essential for various biological functions and structures.