9 Main Functions of Golgi Bodies

Golgi bodies commonly referred to as Golgi apparatus are specialized structures within the cell that handle specific roles and assist the cell to function. These organelles, which form a considerable part of the cell’s endomembrane system, are mostly found in eukaryotic cells. Like any other organelle, the Golgi complex carries various functions within the cell, some of which have been discussed below. 

1. Absorption of Compounds 

Golgi bodies are connected with storage and absorption lipids, which help them to form an essential part of the absorption system within the cell. They help in absorbing complex compounds such as sugar. According to Hirsch, the Golgi complex also helps in the absorption of pure elements such as copper and gold, which are essential metals in the body. Additionally, Golgi bodies help in removal of water from various products, especially during the formation of secretory granules. 

2. Help in Enzyme Formation 

Golgi complex is responsible for the formation of most of the enzymes in the cells and other areas that breakdown food into its constituent components. Enzymes are biological catalysts that support chemical reactions in the cells. Most of these biological reactions take place in various parts of the body such as mouth, stomach, and the small intestines. Pancreatic digestive enzymes such as pancreatic amylase are produced by Golgi and then released into pancreatic ducts. 

3. Formation of Secretion and Secretory Vesicles 

Besides being involved in multiple cell functions, the primary role of Golgi is secretion. Movement of materials from one place of the cell to the other is an important role that must be guided by specialized cell organelles. Golgi complex forms secretory vesicles which are used as the medium for secretions. Most of the secretions, especially those from the rough endoplasmic reticulum, move through Golgi apparatus and finally through the plasma membrane to the adjacent cells. 

4. Production of Hormones 

Hormones are chemical secretions from the cell that help to trigger the performance of various body tissues and organs to react in a particular way. Like other secretions, hormones are produced by Golgi apparatus. This is an indication that any disturbance of Golgi could lead to low enzyme production, which could be catastrophic. 

5. Formation of Intracellular Crystals 

Within the cells, there are multiple crystals which are components of secretions and provide a conducive medium for chemical reactions. These crystals contain large quantities of iron and proteins and are formed by Golgi bodies. Most of these crystals do not have an enclosing membrane. They also play a significant role in secretory activities. 

6. Formation of Plant Cell Wall 

Golgi bodies play a secondary role in the formation of plant cell walls. They synthesize all polysaccharides within the plant cells, which are the major components of the cell wall. Microfibrils, hemicelluloses, and pectin are synthesized by Golgi apparatus and then packed in vesicles for secretions. These materials are later released through secretion to the cell wall where they are major components. 

Golgi is also involved in mitotic cell division where they form a cell plate. Through secretion and deposition of hemicelluloses and pectic substances, the cell plate is thickened and enlarged and later deposited on the outermost part of the plant cell as the cellulose cell wall. 

7. Glycoproteins Secretions 

Like other proteins, glycoproteins are formed by the Golgi complex. Most of the protein products are attached to carbohydrates to form highly concentrated protein components. Concentrated protein products are stored on the edge of Golgi bodies after which they will be released through secretions on a need basis. 

8. Storage of Protein 

Vesicles and vacuoles are the major components of the Golgi complex, and they act as the major storage areas for proteins and other lipids. Protein or lipids synthesized within the cell are all stored by Golgi, and they are later used in secretions. 

9. Formation of Milk Protein Droplets 

This does not occur in the cells of most animals but occurs in mammary glands of lactating mice. Most of the proteins produced are highly related to the Golgi complex. The milk droplets open on the cell surface by fusion and enter the cell through the plasma membrane. 

Like other important cell organelles, Golgi bodies are very important because they handle complex roles within the cell. Secretion, which is their main role, almost controls all functions of the cell. Other important roles of the Golgi complex include the formation of acrosomes among other functions.