What cellular structure provides the enzymes that link amino acids for protein synthesis?

The ribosome is the cellular structure responsible for synthesizing proteins by linking amino acids together. This process is known as translation, which occurs in the cytoplasm where ribosomes can be found either freely floating or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. During translation, ribosomes read the messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence and facilitate the binding of transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules that carry specific amino acids. The ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between these amino acids, creating a polypeptide chain that eventually folds into a functional protein. This role is essential for cellular function, as proteins are vital for various biological processes, including structure, function, and regulation.

The nucleus, while crucial for storing genetic information and synthesizing mRNA, does not directly participate in the assembly of amino acids into proteins. Mitochondria are primarily involved in energy production through the process of cellular respiration, while the endoplasmic reticulum plays a role in the folding and processing of newly synthesized proteins but does not link amino acids together. Thus, the ribosome is the key structure that performs the actual linking of amino acids during protein synthesis.