What is the function of ribosomes in protein synthesis?

Ribosomes play a critical role in protein synthesis by assembling amino acids into polypeptides. They serve as the site where messenger RNA (mRNA) is translated into a protein. During this process, ribosomes read the sequence of the mRNA, which is encoded with the genetic information from DNA, and guide the tRNA molecules that carry specific amino acids to the growing polypeptide chain. As each tRNA matches with the corresponding codon on the mRNA, the ribosome facilitates the formation of peptide bonds between adjacent amino acids, ultimately leading to the creation of a functional protein.

This process is fundamental to gene expression, as proteins are essential for numerous biological functions, from catalyzing metabolic reactions to providing structural support in cells. The role of ribosomes in translating mRNA into a specific sequence of amino acids underscores their importance in the central dogma of molecular biology, which describes the flow of genetic information within a biological system.