The Golgi apparatus, often referred to as the Golgi body or Golgi complex, is a vital organelle found in most eukaryotic cells. Its primary function lies in the modification, sorting, and packaging of proteins and lipids that have been synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
Once proteins are created in the rough ER, they are transported to the Golgi apparatus in vesicles. Here, the Golgi apparatus receives these proteins and lipids, processes them, and prepares them for delivery to their final destinations, which could be within the cell or secreted outside the cell.
The structure of the Golgi apparatus is composed of flattened membranous sacs called cisternae. These sacs are stacked on top of each other, resembling a stack of pancakes. The Golgi apparatus has a distinct structure and function: it has a receiving side called the cis face, where vesicles from the ER dock, and a shipping side called the trans face, where processed materials are sent out to their final locations.
In addition to sorting and packaging, the Golgi apparatus also adds carbohydrate groups to proteins, a process known as glycosylation, which is crucial for cell recognition and signaling. Overall, the Golgi apparatus plays a key role in ensuring that proteins and lipids are correctly modified and delivered, maintaining cellular functions and contributing to overall cellular health.