What are specialized bodies within the cell that perform specific cellular functions known as?

The term that refers to specialized bodies within the cell that perform specific cellular functions is organelles. Organelles are essentially the “miniature organs” of the cell, each with unique roles that contribute to the overall health and functioning of the cell. For example, mitochondria are responsible for energy production, while the endoplasmic reticulum plays a key role in protein and lipid synthesis. The presence of distinct organelles allows for compartmentalization of various biochemical processes, which enhances efficiency and organization within the cellular environment.

While hormones are important signaling molecules in the body, they are not structures within cells but rather substances released into the bloodstream to regulate physiological activities elsewhere. Cytoplasts is not a recognized term in cell biology related to cellular structures. Ribosomes are indeed a type of organelle responsible for protein synthesis, but they are just one type among many different organelles, such as the nucleus and lysosomes. Thus, the best choice to encapsulate all specialized structures performing various functions within the cell is organelles.