ribonucleoproteïne

Ribonucleoproteins, often abbreviated as RNPs, are molecular complexes found in all living cells that consist of one or more RNA molecules bound to proteins. These complexes are fundamental to a vast array of cellular processes, playing critical roles in gene expression, RNA processing, and protein synthesis. The interaction between RNA and protein in RNPs is highly specific, with particular proteins recognizing and binding to distinct RNA sequences or structures. This specific binding is crucial for the proper function of the RNP.

A prime example of an RNP is the ribosome, the cellular machinery responsible for translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. Ribosomes are composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and numerous ribosomal proteins. Another significant class of RNPs includes spliceosomes, which are responsible for removing non-coding regions (introns) from precursor mRNA. These complexes are made up of small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and associated proteins. Other RNPs are involved in RNA transport, stability, and regulation. The dynamic assembly and disassembly of RNPs are often tightly controlled, allowing cells to adapt to changing conditions and fine-tune their molecular activities. Dysregulation of RNP function can lead to various diseases, highlighting their essential role in cellular health.