Final answer:
The problem with a cell not being able to produce proteins despite having genetic information suggests issues with the ribosomes. Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis, translating mRNA into functional proteins.
Step-by-step explanation:
The individual cell's inability to produce encoded proteins despite the ability to make copies of its genetic information indicates a possible problem with the ribosomes. Ribosomes are the cellular structures where protein synthesis occurs, using RNA to assemble and join together amino acids. Problems within the ribosomes can prevent the translation process, where genetic information is used to build proteins.
DNA, the genetic material in an animal cell, is found in the nucleus, while RNA components of ribosomes are synthesized in the nucleolus. It is important to note that ribosomes are found throughout the cell; they can be attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum or floating free within the cytoplasm.