Where does transcription and translation occur in prokaryotic cells?

In prokaryotic cells, both transcription and translation occur in the cytoplasm. Unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotes do not have a defined nucleus. This means that the processes of transcription (the synthesis of RNA from DNA) and translation (the synthesis of proteins from RNA) can occur simultaneously. As soon as the mRNA is synthesized from the DNA, ribosomes can attach to it and begin translating the message into a protein right away. This efficiency allows prokaryotic cells to rapidly respond to changes in their environment and produce proteins as needed.