Which RNA is a major component of ribosomes and helps catalyze translation?

• A. Ribosomal RNA
• B. Messenger RNA
• C. Transfer RNA
• D. Micro RNA

Answer: (A)

Ribosomal RNA is the RNA that forms the core of the ribosome and carries out the chemistry of protein synthesis. In the ribosome, rRNA provides the catalytic center where peptide bonds are formed, acting as a ribozyme, while ribosomal proteins mainly provide support and structure. This makes rRNA the primary catalytic component of translation. Messenger RNA carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosome to be read as a template, transfer RNA brings in the correct amino acids, and microRNA regulates gene expression rather than participating in the ribosome’s catalytic activity. So the RNA that is a major component of ribosomes and drives the translation reaction is ribosomal RNA.