Definition of Ribozyme
1. a molecule of RNA that functions as an enzyme [n -S]
Medical Definition of Ribozyme
1.
Often referred to as RNA with catalytic capacity, an enzyme made of nucleic acid not protein that catalyse chemical reactions, often the breakdown of other RNAs.
Of particular interest because of the implications for self replicating systems in the earliest stages of the evolution of (terrestrial) life.
Their discovery in the mid-1980s refuted the concept that only proteins could be biological catalysts. There is potential for their use as pharmaceuticals and industrial catalysts.
(13 Nov 1997)
Lexicographical Neighbors of Ribozyme
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