OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam 2025 - Free OSMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

Ribosomes are essential organelles found in all living cells and play a crucial role in the process of protein synthesis, also known as translation. They are composed of ribosomal RNA and proteins and serve as the sites where messenger RNA (mRNA) is translated into polypeptide chains, which then fold into functional proteins. This process is fundamental for a variety of cellular functions, as proteins are necessary for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs.

In understanding the role of ribosomes, it's important to highlight that their primary function is to facilitate the assembly of amino acids into protein sequences based on the genetic information carried by mRNA. This process underscores their role in the central dogma of molecular biology, where DNA is transcribed to produce mRNA, which is then translated by ribosomes to create proteins.

Other options listed relate to different cellular processes. Energy production typically occurs in mitochondria, while fluid balance and active transport involve specialized proteins and cellular mechanisms distinct from ribosomal activity. Thus, the association of ribosomes with protein production reflects a fundamental aspect of cell biology, emphasizing their critical function in enabling cells to generate the proteins necessary for life.