[Structural-functional organization of Golgi apparatus].

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The Golgi apparatus (GA) is a central organelle in eukaryotic cells, essential for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.
• Understanding the GA's complex structure and dynamic functions is crucial for deciphering cellular trafficking and disease mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of the current knowledge on the structure and function of the Golgi apparatus.
• To discuss various models of intra-Golgi transport, biogenesis, and protein/lipid modification and sorting.
• To highlight the roles of key molecular players like coatomer proteins, fusion proteins, and small GTPases in the secretory pathway.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes data from numerous experimental papers and existing reviews.
• It incorporates original data concerning the GA's potential role in water transport.
• The review examines atypical Golgi organization in microsporidia.

Main Results:

• The review elucidates protein and lipid transport mechanisms within the Golgi apparatus.
• It details the involvement of coatomer proteins (COPI, COPII, clathrin), SNAREs, and small GTPases (ARF, SARI) in the secretory pathway.
• Ultrastructural alterations of the GA under various physiological conditions are discussed, alongside novel findings on GA's role in water transport and its atypical form in microsporidia.

Conclusions:

• The Golgi apparatus is a highly dynamic organelle with intricate mechanisms governing protein and lipid trafficking.
• Key molecular machinery, including coat proteins, SNAREs, and GTPases, orchestrates the secretory pathway.
• Further research into GA function, including its potential role in water transport and its variations in parasites, is warranted.