Western Governors University (WGU) BIO1010 C190 Introduction to Biology Practice Exam

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis, which is the process of translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains that become proteins. This function occurs in two primary locations in the cell: free ribosomes in the cytoplasm and attached ribosomes on the endoplasmic reticulum, also known as rough ER.

During protein synthesis, ribosomes read the genetic information encoded in mRNA and use transfer RNA (tRNA) to bring the appropriate amino acids, which are then linked together in the correct order to form a protein. This process is critical for various cellular functions, as proteins play crucial roles in structure, enzymes, signaling, and regulation within the cell and the body as a whole.

While energy production, lipid synthesis, and DNA replication are all vital processes in the cell, they are carried out by different organelles or systems. Mitochondria are primarily responsible for energy production, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum handles lipid synthesis, and DNA replication occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle, involving multiple enzymes and repair proteins. Therefore, the role of ribosomes being focused on protein synthesis is the key function they serve in cellular biology.