Translational machinery (IMAGE) University of Arizona Caption The translational machinery is a vital component in the cells of all organisms. Having undergone very little change over billions of years of evolution, it has been referred to as "an evolutionary accident frozen in time." At its core is the ribosome (blue), which translates genetic information stored in RNA strands into proteins, the building blocks of life. Credit National Science Foundation Usage Restrictions This visual may only be used for the purpose of posting and/or reporting of this news release. Credit information must be provided as indicated. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.