What is the role of the Golgi body in a cell?

The Golgi body, also known as the Golgi apparatus, plays a critical role in the processing and packaging of proteins and lipids within a cell. It functions as a sorting hub that receives proteins synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and modifies them into their final forms. The Golgi body adds carbohydrate groups to proteins in a process known as glycosylation, which is essential for proper protein function, targeting, and stability.

Once the proteins are properly modified, the Golgi body sorts them based on their destination. It then packages these proteins into vesicles that will transport them to various locations within or outside the cell. Some of these vesicles may carry proteins to the cell membrane for secretion, while others may target different organelles within the cell. This sorting and packaging function is crucial for maintaining cellular organization and ensuring that proteins reach their intended sites, supporting the overall functionality and health of the cell.