What is a primary role of proteins in the body?

Proteins play a critical role in the coordination of bodily functions, which includes facilitating communication between different systems in the body. They are essential for the structure and function of enzymes, hormones, and antibodies, which all contribute to maintaining homeostasis. For example, hormones like insulin, which is a protein, help regulate blood sugar levels, while enzymes drive biochemical reactions that are vital for digestion and metabolism.

The other choices relate to functions that are not primarily attributed to proteins. Energy storage is primarily the role of carbohydrates and fats, while the transport of oxygen is mainly the responsibility of hemoglobin found in red blood cells, which is a specialized protein. Regulation of body temperature is primarily managed through behavioral and physiological responses that do not directly involve proteins as a leading functional group. This makes the coordination of bodily functions the most applicable primary role for proteins.