Which organelles are known as the protein factories of the cell, producing enzymes and proteins for growth and repair?

• A. Lysosomes
• B. Ribosomes
• C. Golgi Apparatus
• D. Nucleus

Answer: (B)

Ribosomes are the sites where proteins are made in the cell. They read the genetic message carried by mRNA and link together amino acids to form polypeptides, which fold into functional proteins like enzymes and various proteins needed for growth and repair. These ribosomes can float freely in the cytoplasm or be attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, where the proteins they produce are often destined for export out of the cell or for use in the cell membrane. In contrast, lysosomes digest waste and old cell parts, the Golgi apparatus packages and ships proteins to their destinations, and the nucleus stores DNA and directs cell activities. So, the protein-producing role is the clear hallmark of ribosomes.