Proteins are what genes code for. They perform much of the work of the cell, and there are many kinds of proteins. Each organelle has its own specific proteins that carry out different jobs. All proteins are made in the cytoplasm. If a protein functions in the cytosol, nucleus, mitochondria, or peroxisome, then it is made on a ribosome that is free in the cytosol. If a protein functions in the endomembrane system, then it is made on a ribosome attached to the outside of the rough endoplasmic reticulum. As the protein is made, it is forced through a pore in the endoplasmic reticulum. Inside the rough endoplasmic reticulum, each enzyme listed below is described along with the kind of ribosome on which it is made (cytosolic or RER). If it is made on a ribosome attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum, the final destination of the protein is the endomembrane system.
Protein
Ribosome type
Location
Endomembrane system (if applicable)
RNA polymerase (synthesizes RNA during transcription)
Testosterone synthesizing enzyme
Amino acid transporter (brings amino acids into intestinal cells)
DNA polymerase (makes DNA)
Aldolase enzyme (glycolysis)
Mature acid hydrolase that will function as an intracellular peptidase