Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

Which organelle is primarily responsible for processing and packaging macromolecules like proteins and lipids?

1. The ribosome

2. The Golgi apparatus

3. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum

4. The lysosome

The correct answer is: The Golgi apparatus

The Golgi apparatus is primarily responsible for processing and packaging macromolecules such as proteins and lipids within the cell. After proteins are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum, they are transported to the Golgi apparatus, where they undergo modifications, sorting, and packaging. This organelle plays a crucial role in ensuring that proteins are correctly processed and sent to their appropriate destinations within or outside the cell. In addition to processing proteins, the Golgi apparatus also modifies lipids and plays a significant role in the production of lysosomes. The careful packaging and the formation of vesicles that contain these macromolecules are vital for the cell's functionality and communication. In contrast, the other organelles mentioned have different roles: ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is primarily involved in lipid synthesis and metabolism, and lysosomes are responsible for the degradation of cellular waste and digestion of macromolecules. Thus, the Golgi apparatus is uniquely suited to the task of processing and packaging.