Prepare for the Clinical Genetics Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Achieve success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis?

Ribosomes translate genetic information from mRNA into a growing polypeptide. They read codons on the mRNA and recruit tRNAs carrying the appropriate amino acids, then catalyze the formation of peptide bonds to link those amino acids into a chain. The small subunit binds the mRNA to ensure correct codon–anticodon pairing, while the large subunit carries out the chemical reaction that forms the peptide bonds. Translation proceeds through initiation, elongation, and termination; when a stop codon is reached, the finished polypeptide is released and the ribosome dissociates. Ribosomes do not synthesize lipids, package proteins, or degrade mRNA—those tasks are handled by other cellular components and enzymes.

Ribosomes translate genetic information from mRNA into a growing polypeptide. They read codons on the mRNA and recruit tRNAs carrying the appropriate amino acids, then catalyze the formation of peptide bonds to link those amino acids into a chain. The small subunit binds the mRNA to ensure correct codon–anticodon pairing, while the large subunit carries out the chemical reaction that forms the peptide bonds. Translation proceeds through initiation, elongation, and termination; when a stop codon is reached, the finished polypeptide is released and the ribosome dissociates. Ribosomes do not synthesize lipids, package proteins, or degrade mRNA—those tasks are handled by other cellular components and enzymes.