Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

What function do ribosomes serve within a cell?

1. Lipid production

2. Protein synthesis

3. Energy storage

4. Nucleic acid repair

The correct answer is: Protein synthesis

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures primarily responsible for protein synthesis. They act as the site where RNA is translated into proteins, a fundamental process for cell function and development. During protein synthesis, ribosomes read messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences and link together the appropriate amino acids in the correct order to form a polypeptide chain, which then folds into a functional protein. This process is critical because proteins play a myriad of roles, including serving as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules. Without ribosomes, cells would be unable to produce proteins, hindering their ability to carry out vital activities necessary for life. The other listed functions are not performed by ribosomes: lipid production occurs in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum; energy storage is often managed by vacuoles or specific storage granules; nucleic acid repair involves specific enzymes and mechanisms distinct from the role of ribosomes. Thus, understanding the pivotal role of ribosomes helps clarify their importance in cellular biology and protein metabolism.