What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?

Ribosomes play a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis, which is essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of cells. They are the molecular machines responsible for translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains, which fold into functional proteins. This process occurs in two main stages: transcription, where DNA is transcribed into mRNA, and translation, where ribosomes read the mRNA sequences and assemble amino acids in the correct order.

Ribosomes can be found either freely floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, forming rough ER. Their ability to connect amino acids in a specific sequence permits the creation of a vast array of proteins, each with unique functions that are vital for cellular processes. Understanding the pivotal role ribosomes play in protein synthesis highlights their importance in the overall functioning of living organisms.