what is the function of ribosomes

The primary function of ribosomes is to synthesize proteins by translating the genetic code carried by messenger RNA (mRNA) into a specific sequence of amino acids, which then fold into functional proteins. Ribosomes consist of two subunits-small and large-that work together during this process. The small subunit reads the mRNA sequence, decoding the genetic information, while the large subunit catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids, linking them into a polypeptide chain. This process is known as translation. More specifically, ribosomes serve as a docking site where transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules bring amino acids corresponding to the mRNA codons. The ribosome facilitates the matching of tRNA anticodons to mRNA codons and catalyzes the peptide bond formation, elongating the protein chain until the entire protein is synthesized. After completion, the ribosome disassembles, releasing the newly made protein to function within or outside the cell. Ribosomes can be found freely floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, depending on where the proteins they produce are destined to function. They are composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins, and their enzymatic activity primarily resides in the rRNA components. In summary, ribosomes are essential molecular machines that translate genetic information into proteins, which are vital for virtually all cellular functions, including repair, signaling, and enzymatic activities