Which cellular structure is responsible for performing translation during protein synthesis?

The ribosome is the cellular structure that performs translation during protein synthesis, making it essential for assembling amino acids into proteins based on the instructions carried by messenger RNA (mRNA). Ribosomes can be found freely floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, where they function as the site of translation.

During translation, ribosomes facilitate the decoding of mRNA by recruiting transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules that bring specific amino acids into place according to the sequence of the mRNA. The ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between the amino acids, ultimately resulting in a polypeptide chain that will fold into a functional protein.

The other structures mentioned have different roles within the cell. The nucleus is primarily the control center of the cell, housing the genetic material and overseeing transcription rather than translation. The mitochondrion is mainly involved in energy production via cellular respiration. The endoplasmic reticulum, while it plays a role in the synthesis and processing of proteins (specifically the rough ER), does not participate in the actual translation process itself, which is exclusively the function of the ribosome.