The catalytic role of rRNAs was uncovered through a combination of biochemical, genetic, and structural studies. Notably, the crystallographic analysis of ribosomes revealed the intricate positioning of rRNA in the active site of the ribosome. Researchers such as Thomas Steitz and Ada Yonath played pivotal roles in elucidating the 3D structure of ribosomes, demonstrating that the active site responsible for peptide bond formation is composed entirely of rRNA, devoid of any protein components.
