Question

On which of the following intracellular locations does Clathrin organize a coat and form vesicles?

1) trans-Golgi complex
2) Endoplasmic network
3) Inner membrane of mitochondria
4) Regulated secretory vesicles

Answer 1

Clathrin-coated vesicles are formed at the trans-Golgi complex and are involved in receptor-mediated endocytosis and the secretory transport pathway.

Step-by-step explanation:

Clathrin organizes a coat and forms vesicles at the trans-Golgi complex. This process is essential for the sorting and directed transport of various proteins and lipids in the cell. Specifically, clathrin-coated vesicles are involved in trafficking from the Golgi to the plasma membrane, in endocytosis, and in transport to lysosomes.

During receptor-mediated endocytosis, clathrin plays a pivotal role in the formation of coated pits on the plasma membrane. These pits invaginate to form vesicles that internalize extracellular molecules. This is a crucial process for cells to intake nutrients, hormones, and other signaling molecules.

Additionally, in the secretory pathway, clathrin-coated vesicles bud off from the Golgi apparatus to deliver newly synthesized proteins to their destinations, including the plasma membrane or the extracellular space.