Ribosome

What is Ribosome?

A ribosome is a small structure within the cell that synthesizes proteins by reading genetic instructions from RNA. Ribosomes can be found floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum.

Protein Synthesis

Protein synthesis is the process where cells make proteins, which are essential for almost everything in the body. This process happens mainly in tiny structures called ribosomes. First, the cell’s DNA sends instructions in the form of messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA carries the “recipe” for making a specific protein from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosome.

Once the mRNA arrives, the ribosome reads the instructions and begins to assemble amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, in the correct order. As each amino acid is added, a chain starts to form. Gradually, this chain grows into a complete protein. Finally, when the ribosome finishes building, the protein folds into its proper shape, ready to be used in the cell. This whole process is very important because proteins help the body grow, repair itself, and perform countless tasks every day.

The 70S Ribosome

The 70S ribosome exists in bacteria and some other small organisms, like mitochondria and chloroplasts in plant cells. Ribosomes act like tiny factories inside cells that make proteins. The “70S” part describes its size and structure, which is smaller than the ribosomes in larger organisms like humans.

The 70S ribosome includes two main parts, or subunits. These subunits, called the 50S and 30S, come together to form the full ribosome. Each subunit has a specific job. For example, one reads the instructions for making proteins, while the other connects amino acids to build the protein chain.

Even though it’s small, the 70S ribosome plays an essential role. Without it, bacteria and other small cells couldn’t make the proteins they need to survive and grow.