Is Golgi Body Present in Plant and Animal Cells?

Introduction

The Golgi body is an essential organelle found in most eukaryotic cells. It is responsible for sorting, modifying, and packaging proteins and lipids into vesicles for transport to their final destination. However, there is a question whether the Golgi body is present in both plant and animal cells.

Golgi Body in Animal Cells

The presence of the Golgi body in animal cells is well established. It is an integral part of the endomembrane system, and it works in coordination with other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, and vesicles. The Golgi apparatus in animal cells typically consists of several flattened stacks of membrane-bound cisternae.

Golgi Body in Plant Cells

There is no doubt that plant cells have Golgi bodies. However, the structure of the Golgi apparatus in plant cells is slightly different from that of animal cells. The plant Golgi apparatus is typically made up of several small cisternae that are not stacked, but instead, they are dispersed throughout the cytoplasm. Also, plant cells usually have more Golgi bodies than animal cells.

Functional Differences

Despite the similarities in structure, the Golgi apparatus in plant and animal cells performs slightly different functions. In animal cells, the Golgi body is involved in the modification and trafficking of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. In contrast, the plant Golgi body is more involved in the synthesis of complex polysaccharides and the transport of cell wall components.

Golgi Body and Disease

The Golgi body dysfunction can lead to various types of diseases in animals, such as neurodegenerative disorders, heart diseases, and cancer. Also, researchers have found that the impairment of the plant Golgi apparatus can cause developmental abnormalities, decreased fertility, and even plant death.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Golgi body is present in both plant and animal cells. Although the structure and function of the Golgi apparatus in plant and animal cells are slightly different, they play a vital role in various cellular processes. By understanding the function and behavior of the Golgi apparatus in both plants and animals, researchers can develop new approaches to diagnose and treat a wide range of human diseases and enhance plant growth and yield.