Polysome

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Polyribosomes are a cluster of ribosomes, bound to an mRNA molecule, first discovered and characterized by Jonathan Warner, Paul Knopf, and Alex Rich in 1963 [1]. Polyribosomes read this mRNA simultaneously, helping to synthesize the same protein at different spots on the mRNA. mRNA being the "messenger" in the process of protein synthesis.

Polysomes (polyribosomes) are free ribosomes engaged in protein synthesis and may appear as clusters, linear arrays, or rosetts in routine. This is aided by the fact that mRNA is able to be twisted into a circular formation, creating a cycle of rapid ribosome recycling, and utilization of ribosomes. 5' cap and 3' polyA tail aids in this process. They can be found in three forms: free, cytoskeletal bound and membrane bound.


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