In the context of the endomembrane system, what is the primary function of a secretory vesicle?

• A. To synthesize proteins within the cytoplasm
• B. To degrade misfolded proteins within the cell
• C. To store genetic information for protein synthesis
• D. To transport proteins from the Golgi apparatus to the cell surface for secretion

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the components of the endomembrane system, which includes the nuclear envelope, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, vacuoles, and the plasma membrane.
2. Recognize the role of the Golgi apparatus in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion. Proteins are transported in vesicles from the Golgi apparatus to their destination.
3. Identify the function of secretory vesicles, which are responsible for carrying proteins from the Golgi apparatus to the cell surface, where they are released outside the cell.
4. Differentiate the function of secretory vesicles from other cellular processes such as protein synthesis, degradation, and genetic information storage, which are not related to the primary function of secretory vesicles.
5. Conclude that the primary function of a secretory vesicle in the endomembrane system is to transport proteins from the Golgi apparatus to the cell surface for secretion.