* Enzymes: Proteins that catalyze (speed up) biochemical reactions. These are essential for metabolism, DNA replication, and many other processes.
* Structural components: Proteins provide the building blocks for cell structures like the cytoskeleton, cell membranes, and organelles.
* Hormones and signaling molecules: Many hormones, like insulin, are proteins that act as signals between cells.
* Antibodies: Proteins that help the immune system fight off infections.
* Transport proteins: Proteins that move molecules across cell membranes.
In summary, ribosomes create the proteins that are essential for almost every function within a cell.