Protein synthesis in an animal cell, takes place

Options

A. only in the cytoplasm
B. in the nucleolus as well as in the mitochondria
C. in the cytoplasm as well as in mitochondria
D. only only on ribosomes attached to a nucleus

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Protein Synthesis**: Protein synthesis is the process by which cells generate new proteins. This process occurs in various locations within the cell, particularly in eukaryotic cells such as animal cells.

2. **Identifying Key Organelles**: In animal cells, the primary organelles involved in protein synthesis include:
- Ribosomes
- Cytoplasm
- Mitochondria

3. **Role of Ribosomes**: Ribosomes are the main sites of protein synthesis. They can be found in two locations:
- Free in the cytoplasm
- Bound to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)

4. **Mitochondria's Role**: Mitochondria are semi-autonomous organelles that also contain their own ribosomes (70S type) and can synthesize some proteins independently.

5. **Conclusion on Locations**: Therefore, protein synthesis in an animal cell occurs in:
- The cytoplasm (where free ribosomes are located)
- Mitochondria (which have their own ribosomes)

6. **Evaluating Options**:
- **Option A**: Only in the cytoplasm - Incorrect, as protein synthesis also occurs in mitochondria.
- **Option B**: In the nucleus and mitochondria - Incorrect, as the nucleus is involved in ribosome assembly but not in direct protein synthesis.
- **Option C**: In the cytoplasm as well as in the mitochondria - Correct, as both locations are involved in protein synthesis.
- **Option D**: Only on ribosomes attached to a nucleus - Incorrect, as ribosomes in mitochondria also contribute to protein synthesis.

7. **Final Answer**: The correct answer is **Option C**: Protein synthesis in an animal cell takes place in the cytoplasm as well as in the mitochondria.

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