What is the primary role of ribozymes in cellular processes?

The primary role of ribozymes is to catalyze reactions like enzymes. Ribozymes are a unique class of RNA molecules that possess the ability to catalyze specific biochemical reactions, similar to the way protein enzymes function. This catalytic ability of ribozymes is a fundamental aspect of their biological importance, as they can participate in various cellular processes, including the cleavage and ligation of RNA molecules.

While ribozymes can be involved in processes such as RNA splicing, their defining characteristic is their enzymatic activity. This distinguishes them from merely serving as carriers of genetic information or facilitating hydrolysis reactions. The primary function emphasizes that ribozymes provide catalytic capabilities, crucial for many cellular reactions. Thus, the recognition of ribozymes as catalysts underscores their essential role in RNA biology and molecular genetics.