Which process is responsible for the synthesis of proteins?

The synthesis of proteins occurs through two main processes: transcription and translation. During transcription, the DNA sequence of a gene is copied to produce messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA then serves as a template for translation, where ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and assemble the corresponding amino acids to form a protein. This process is fundamental to cellular function and is essential for growth, repair, and the maintenance of the cell.

Other options refer to processes that are not directly involved in protein synthesis. Replication and mutation pertain to the processes of copying genetic material and changes in DNA, respectively, which do not involve synthesizing proteins. Cell division and differentiation relate to how cells replicate and specialize but do not describe the steps of protein formation. Fertilization and meiosis involve the reproduction process and genetic variation but do not contribute to the actual synthesis of proteins in cells.