Final answer:
The correct term for the network responsible for protein transport in a cell is the endoplasmic reticulum, specifically the rough endoplasmic reticulum. It is studded with ribosomes which synthesize proteins, later transported by vesicles to multiple destinations, including the Golgi apparatus for further processing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The transference of proteins throughout a cell is performed by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), specifically the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER). The RER has ribosomes attached to its surface, which synthesize proteins. Once these proteins are synthesized, they are packed into transport vesicles that bud off from the RER. These vesicles then move to the Golgi apparatus, where the proteins can be further modified, sorted and sent to their final destinations. This entire system together with the connected organelles is referred to as the endomembrane system.
The process of protein synthesis and transport
Protein synthesis begins in the nucleus, where DNA is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA exits the nucleus and attaches to ribosomes on the RER. The ribosome translates the mRNA into a protein, which is fed into the RER for potential modifications. The newly made proteins are then packaged into vesicles for transport. These vesicles can either merge with the cell membrane to secrete the protein out of the cell or deliver their contents to other locations within the cell. The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in modifying, sorting, and packaging these proteins for their correct destinations.
Mitochondria are referred to as the power plants of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy.
Vesicles and vacuoles are important for transporting molecules within the cell, isolating harmful materials, and maintaining internal hydrostatic pressure and pH.
Ribosomes are essential for all cells, including prokaryotic cells, because they are the machinery for protein synthesis. Even cells without a nucleus need ribosomes to produce proteins necessary for their survival.
The endosymbiotic theory relates to mitochondria by suggesting that mitochondria were once independent prokaryotic cells that were engulfed by larger cells. One piece of evidence supporting this theory is that mitochondria have their own DNA and replicate independently of the cell.
Lysosomes and peroxisomes are types of organelles, specialized structures within cells that perform distinct processes necessary for the cell's survival.