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Golgi structure in three dimensions: functional insights from the normal rat kidney cell
M S Ladinsky1, D N Mastronarde, J R McIntosh
1Laboratory for Three-Dimensional Fine Structure, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309-0347, USA.
The Journal of Cell Biology
|March 24, 1999
Summary
This study reveals that the trans-Golgi network buds differently than other Golgi cisternae, challenging established models of molecular sorting. Detailed 3D reconstructions highlight distinct vesicle coating and traffic pathways within the Golgi complex.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Structural Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The Golgi complex is crucial for protein and lipid modification and sorting.
- Traditional models propose sorting occurs primarily in the trans-Golgi network.
- Understanding Golgi structure is key to deciphering cellular transport mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To generate high-resolution 3D reconstructions of the Golgi complex.
- To investigate the structural organization and vesicular traffic within the Golgi.
- To challenge and refine existing models of molecular sorting in the Golgi.
Main Methods:
- Cryo-fixation and freeze-substitution of normal rat kidney cells.
- Dual-axis, high-voltage electron microscopy (EM) tomography.
- Generation of 3D reconstructions at approximately 7-nm resolution.
Main Results:
- Reconstructed Golgi stacks show fenestrated cisternae with varying volumes and surface areas.
- The trans-most cisterna exclusively produces clathrin-coated buds, unlike other cisternae.
- Tubules extend from cis and trans cisternae, suggesting roles in Golgi traffic.
- Close contacts between trans-Golgi cisternae and trans ER suggest direct lipid transfer.
Conclusions:
- The trans-Golgi cisterna's unique budding behavior challenges the traditional view of sorting occurring solely at the trans-Golgi network.
- Structural data provide constraints for models of trafficking to, through, and from the Golgi.
- The findings emphasize the dynamic nature of Golgi cisternae and their interactions with the ER.
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