Definition

A structure in a cell consisting of multiple ribosomes attached to a single strand of messenger RNA, involved in protein synthesis.

Example

The polysome allows for the efficient production of proteins by enabling multiple ribosomes to translate the same mRNA simultaneously.

Conversation

Have you ever learned about a polysome in biology class?

Yeah, I remember it being related to protein synthesis or something.

Exactly! It's fascinating how multiple ribosomes can work together on one mRNA strand to form a polysome.

Right, it really shows how efficient our cells are at making proteins.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polysome → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "some" (from Greek "soma", meaning body). The word "polysome" refers to a structure consisting of many ribosomes attached to a single mRNA strand, thus indicating a body of many parts working together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') bodies ('soma') working together on a single task — that's what a polysome is.

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