What is the Golgi Complex?
The Golgi complex, or Golgi apparatus, is a cell structure that is found in cells of all animals. The main purpose of the Golgi complex is to package molecules such as proteins and fats that are synthesized by the endoplasmic reticulum. The proteins and fats that pass through the Golgi are either stored for later use, taken to the cell membrane where they are released outside of the cell, or become part of the cell membrane. The Golgi complex is made up of five to eight flattened membrane sacs, which are referred to as cisternae. The flattened membranes, which are about one micrometer in diameter, sit on top of each other and are connected. There are five functional regions on the cisternae stack that package or release proteins to other regions of a cell. In order for the Golgi complex to store or send off proteins and fats, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum pinches off vesicles, which are small bubbles of liquid, that are taken up by the Golgi. A functional region called the cis-Gogli
The Golgi complex or Golgi apparatus is responsible for manufacturing, warehousing and shipping certain cellular products, particularly those from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Depending on the type of cell, there can be just a few complexes or hundreds. A Golgi complex is composed of flat sacs that are stacked. Each stacked grouping has a membrane that separates the insides from the cell’s cytosol. The Golgi complex modifies many products including proteins and phospholipids. Learn more about cells and cellular components.
