Journeys through the Golgi--taking stock in a new era

Abstract

The Golgi apparatus is essential for protein sorting and transport. Many researchers have long been fascinated with the form and function of this organelle. Yet, despite decades of scrutiny, the mechanisms by which proteins are transported across the Golgi remain controversial. At a recent meeting, many prominent Golgi researchers assembled to critically evaluate the core issues in the field. This report presents the outcome of their discussions and highlights the key open questions that will help guide the field into a new era.

A tomographic image slice (left) from a 3D reconstruction (right) of a section of insulin-secreting beta pancreatic mouse cell shows the “stacks” of Golgi cisternae distributed along the length of the ribbon. The clathrin-coated trans-most cisterna (red) or “TGN” at the center of the ribbon reveals the extraordinary complexity of Golgi architecture. Golgi cisternae (cis-trans): light blue, pink, green, dark blue, gold, red; Golgi-associated vesicles: white. BRAD MARSH

Golgi researchers gathered in June, 2009, in Barcelona. From left to right: Scott Emr, Catherine Rabouille, Alberto Luini, Ben Glick, Brad Marsh, Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz, Felix Wieland, Graham Warren, Suzanne Pfeffer, Jim Rothman, Aki Nakano, Adam Linstedt, and Vivek Malhotra.

In vitro reconstituted Xenopus Golgi membranes. GRAHAM WARREN