What is one of the primary functions of genes?

Genes play a crucial role in the development and functioning of all living organisms, and one of their primary functions is to code for protein synthesis. This involves the transmission of genetic information that directs the production of proteins, which are essential for various cellular processes and overall biological functions.

The process begins with the transcription of DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA), which then undergoes translation at the ribosome to assemble amino acids into specific proteins. Each gene contains the instructions for building particular proteins that determine traits and perform vital roles, including acting as enzymes, hormones, and structural components of cells.

While other options mention important cell functions, they do not capture the fundamental role of genes in coding for proteins. Genes do not directly provide energy, facilitate cellular respiration, or connect amino acids, but they are responsible for the synthesis of the proteins that participate in these processes. Thus, the ability of a gene to code for protein synthesis is central to its function in biology.