What is the role of the 60S ribosomal subunit?

The 60S ribosomal subunit plays a crucial role in the function of the ribosome during protein synthesis. Specifically, it is responsible for catalyzing the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids as the polypeptide chain is being assembled. This catalytic activity is a key step in translation, the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins based on the information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA).

The 60S subunit is part of the larger ribosomal complex, which also includes the smaller 40S subunit. While the 40S subunit is primarily involved in the recognition of the start codon on mRNA and the assembly of the initiation complex, the 60S subunit takes over the catalytic role once the translation process is underway. This distinction highlights the specialization of the ribosomal subunits, where the 60S subunit’s function is central to the synthesis of the polypeptide chain through its ability to form peptide bonds, linking the amino acids together.

Understanding this role emphasizes the importance of the 60S subunit in the overall mechanism of translation and protein biosynthesis.