The synthesis of proteins from messenger RNA (mRNA) within eukaryotic cells is a fundamental biological process. This intricate operation, occurring in the cytoplasm, involves ribosomes decoding the mRNA sequence to assemble a polypeptide chain from amino acids. This stage of gene expression follows transcription and is essential for cellular function.
Efficient and accurate protein production is critical for cell survival and proper physiological activity. Errors in this synthesis process can lead to non-functional proteins, potentially causing disease. This cellular activity is highly regulated and represents a key control point in gene expression, enabling cells to respond dynamically to environmental cues and developmental signals.