rRNA: Ribosomal RNA

Definition

rRNA is a type of RNA that combines with proteins to form ribosomes, the structures where protein synthesis occurs.

Analogy

Think of rRNA as the factory floor manager in a car assembly line. It doesn't build the car itself but provides the platform and instructions for other workers (proteins) to assemble the car (protein synthesis).

Related terms

tRNA (Transfer RNA): This is like the delivery truck that brings parts (amino acids) to the assembly line (ribosome).

mRNA (Messenger RNA): This is like blueprints for building a specific model of a car. It carries information from DNA about how to construct a particular protein.

Ribosome: The cellular machinery that uses mRNA instructions to assemble amino acids into proteins. Like an assembly line in our analogy.