Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) contains self-splicing introns (ribozymes) that catalyse their own excision. The key feature that allows RNA to act as a catalyst is:

• A RNA forms hydrogen bonds with DNA template to achieve catalytic conformation
• B RNA binds ATP and phosphorylates substrate similar to protein kinases
• C RNA can fold into complex three-dimensional structures where specific nucleotide functional groups act as general acid-base and metal-chelating catalysts ✓
• D RNA ribozymes require protein cofactors (guide proteins) for all catalytic activity

Explanation

Ribozymes (catalytic RNAs) achieve enzyme-like catalysis through tertiary folding — hydroxyl groups of 2'-OH, amino groups of adenine, and metal coordination (commonly Mg2+) enable general acid-base catalysis and transition state stabilisation. Group I and Group II introns are self-splicing ribozymes; the ribosome's peptidyl transferase centre is also an RNA-based catalyst. This supports the RNA world hypothesis that RNA was both genetic material and catalyst before the evolution of protein enzymes. RNA does not use ATP for phosphorylation.

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.