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The dynamic nature of the Golgi complex
G Griffiths1, S D Fuller, R Back
1Cell Biology Programme, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Federal Republic of Germany.
The Journal of Cell Biology
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Intracellular transport of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein is blocked at 20°C, causing the trans Golgi-network (TGN) to enlarge. This dynamic Golgi structure rapidly alters surface area based on membrane transport rates.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Virology
- Membrane Trafficking
Background:
- Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) G protein transport is temperature-sensitive.
- Previous studies suggested Golgi alterations at reduced temperatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- Quantify changes in Golgi stack and trans Golgi-network (TGN) size.
- Investigate the relationship between Golgi compartments and membrane transport.
Main Methods:
- Stereological procedures to estimate Golgi volume and surface area.
- Analysis of baby hamster kidney cells under various conditions (temperature, viral infection).
Main Results:
- At 20°C, TGN enlargement correlated with decreased Golgi stack volume and surface area.
- Similar Golgi alterations occurred in uninfected cells at 20°C.
- Semliki Forest virus infection at 37°C also induced TGN increase and Golgi stack decrease without transport inhibition.
Conclusions:
- The Golgi stack and TGN are dynamic, interconnected structures.
- Rapid changes in total surface area reflect alterations in membrane transport rates.