What is the main responsibility of the Golgi apparatus?

The Golgi apparatus plays a critical role in the post-translational modification, sorting, and packaging of proteins that are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum. Its primary responsibility is to process and prepare these proteins for their specific destinations, whether they are to be secreted outside the cell, incorporated into the cell membrane, or sent to lysosomes.

Once proteins and lipids arrive at the Golgi apparatus, they undergo several modifications, including glycosylation and phosphorylation, which can alter their function and increase their stability. The Golgi apparatus then sorts these modified products and packages them into vesicles that transport them to their final destinations.

This sorting and packaging function is essential for maintaining proper cellular function and ensuring that proteins reach the correct location where they are needed to perform their roles. The efficiency and accuracy of this process are vital for overall cellular health and function.