Protein synthesis involves several key steps: transcription, RNA processing, and translation. During transcription, DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA is then processed (adding a 5' cap and poly-A tail) before being translated. During translation, ribosomes read the mRNA sequence, and transfer RNA (tRNA) brings the appropriate amino acids, linking them into a polypeptide chain. This chain folds into a functional protein. These processes are essential for cellular function and gene expression.