Which of the following correctly describes the function of ribosomes?

Ribosomes play a crucial role in the synthesis of proteins within a cell. They facilitate the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains, which eventually fold into functional proteins. This process is essential for cellular functions because proteins serve as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules, among other roles.

The other choices represent functions that ribosomes do not perform. For example, cell signaling involves the communication between cells and is mediated by various molecules, but not directly through ribosome activity. Energy storage is typically associated with polysaccharides or fats, not proteins synthesized by ribosomes. DNA replication is carried out by a complex of enzymes and proteins, but it is not a function of ribosomes. Therefore, the correct description of ribosomes’ function is their critical role in the production of cellular proteins.