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Multiple Choice
What is a polyribosome?
A
A structure that stores ribosomal RNA in the nucleus.
B
A ribosome that synthesizes multiple proteins simultaneously.
C
A complex of multiple ribosomes translating a single mRNA strand simultaneously.
D
A single ribosome translating multiple mRNA strands at once.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the role of ribosomes in the cell. Ribosomes are the molecular machines responsible for protein synthesis, translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains.
Next, consider the process of translation. During translation, ribosomes move along an mRNA strand, reading its sequence and assembling the corresponding amino acids into a protein.
Now, focus on the concept of a polyribosome, also known as a polysome. This structure involves multiple ribosomes attached to a single mRNA strand, each synthesizing a protein simultaneously.
Recognize that the presence of multiple ribosomes on a single mRNA strand allows for the efficient production of multiple copies of a protein from one mRNA molecule.
Finally, differentiate this from other options: a polyribosome is not a single ribosome translating multiple mRNA strands, nor is it a structure that stores ribosomal RNA in the nucleus. It specifically refers to the simultaneous translation of a single mRNA by multiple ribosomes.