Translation in biology happens at ribosomes , which are found in the cytoplasm of all cells.

Quick Scoop

  • In both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, translation (protein synthesis from mRNA) occurs on ribosomes.
  • Ribosomes sit in the cytoplasm ; in eukaryotes they can be:
    • Free in the cytosol, making proteins that stay in the cytoplasm or go to certain organelles.
* Bound to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), making proteins for secretion, membranes, or lysosomes.
  • In prokaryotes, ribosomes in the cytosol start translating mRNA even while it is still being transcribed from DNA.

So, if your exam question is “Where does translation occur?” the safest full answer is:

“Translation occurs on ribosomes in the cytoplasm (on free ribosomes or those attached to the rough ER in eukaryotes).”

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.