Can DNA be translated directly to proteins?

No, DNA cannot be directly translated into proteins. Translation is the process by which the genetic information encoded in mRNA molecules is converted into proteins. DNA serves as the template for mRNA synthesis through transcription. This mRNA transcript carries the genetic code from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and synthesize proteins by linking amino acids together in the order specified by the mRNA codons. Thus, while DNA provides the instructions for protein synthesis, it is the mRNA molecule that serves as the template for translation.