What is the function of 80S ribosomes?

The function of 80S ribosomes is primarily to synthesize proteins, and they are often found attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in eukaryotic cells. This attachment allows them to efficiently translate messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains, forming proteins that will either remain within the cell or be secreted outside of it.

Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis as they facilitate the joining of amino acids in the order specified by the mRNA. The rough ER, characterized by its ribosome-studded surface, is directly involved in the synthesis of secretory proteins and membrane proteins. When ribosomes are bound to the rough ER, they ensure that newly synthesized proteins are properly folded and processed for their designated functions, whether that be in lysosomes, the cell membrane, or for export out of the cell.

In contrast, synthesizing lipids, transporting materials, and containing hydrolytic enzymes are functions associated with other cellular structures, such as smooth ER, vesicles, and lysosomes, respectively. This understanding clarifies the specific role that 80S ribosomes play in cellular function, emphasizing their importance in the process of translation and protein processing within the cell.