28S ribosomal RNA

28S ribosomal RNA is the structural RNA for the large component, or large subunit (LSU) of eukaryotic cytoplasmic ribosomes, and thus one of the basic components of all eukaryotic cells. It is the eukaryotic nuclear homologue of the prokaryotic 23S ribosomal RNA.

The genes coding for 28S rRNA are referred to as 28S rDNA. The Sequences from these genes are sometimes used in molecular analysis to construct phylogenetic trees.

References

Ribosomal RNA

In molecular biology, ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) is the RNA component of the ribosome, and is essential for protein synthesis in all living organisms. It constitutes the predominant material within the ribosome, which is approximately 60% rRNA and 40% protein by weight. Ribosomes contain two major rRNAs and 50 or more proteins. The ribosomal RNAs form two subunits, the large subunit (LSU) and small subunit (SSU). The LSU rRNA acts as a ribozyme, catalyzing peptide bond formation. rRNA sequences are widely used for working out evolutionary relationships among organisms, since they are of ancient origin and are found in all known forms of life.

Structure

The ribosomal RNAs complex with proteins to form two subunits, the large subunit (LSU) and small subunit (SSU). mRNA is sandwiched between the small and large subunits, and the ribosome catalyzes the formation of a peptide bond between the two amino acids that are contained in the rRNA.

A ribosome also has three binding sites called A, P, and E.