Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis?

The ribosome is the organelle responsible for protein synthesis. Ribosomes are small structures that can be found either floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. They play a critical role in translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains, which ultimately fold into functional proteins. This process is essential for numerous cellular activities, including enzyme production, structural functions, and cellular repair.

Mitochondria are primarily known as the powerhouses of the cell, as they generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through cellular respiration, providing energy for various cellular functions. Lysosomes are involved in the degradation and recycling of cellular waste and foreign materials, while amyloplasts are specialized organelles found in plant cells that synthesize and store starch. Thus, the designation of ribosomes as the site for protein synthesis clearly distinguishes their unique function within the cell.