Which RNA forms the structural and catalytic core of ribosomes?

Which RNA forms the structural and catalytic core of ribosomes?

• A. rRNA
• B. mRNA
• C. tRNA
• D. snRNA

Answer: (A)

Ribosomes rely on RNA as both the scaffold and the catalyst. The molecule that forms the structural framework of the ribosome and also provides the catalytic activity is ribosomal RNA. It folds into the two subunits and includes the peptidyl transferase center, where peptide bonds are formed during protein synthesis, acting as a ribozyme. The other RNA types have different roles: messenger RNA carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosome; transfer RNA brings amino acids and matches codons with anticodons; small nuclear RNA participates in splicing of pre-mRNA. Because ribosomal RNA uniquely provides both the structural core and the catalytic function, it best fits as the RNA that forms the ribosome’s core.

Ribosomes rely on RNA as both the scaffold and the catalyst. The molecule that forms the structural framework of the ribosome and also provides the catalytic activity is ribosomal RNA. It folds into the two subunits and includes the peptidyl transferase center, where peptide bonds are formed during protein synthesis, acting as a ribozyme. The other RNA types have different roles: messenger RNA carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosome; transfer RNA brings amino acids and matches codons with anticodons; small nuclear RNA participates in splicing of pre-mRNA. Because ribosomal RNA uniquely provides both the structural core and the catalytic function, it best fits as the RNA that forms the ribosome’s core.