Which organelle is responsible for synthesizing proteins?

The organelle that is responsible for synthesizing proteins is ribosomes. Ribosomes are small structures found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and they play a crucial role in translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into amino acid chains, ultimately forming proteins. They can be found floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, contributing to the production of proteins that are either secreted from the cell or incorporated into membranes.

The process of translation occurs on the ribosomes, where transfer RNA (tRNA) brings amino acids to the ribosome in the sequence dictated by the mRNA. This makes ribosomes essential for protein synthesis, a vital process for cell function, growth, and repair. Understanding the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis highlights their importance in cellular biology and the functioning of living organisms.