Step 1: Understand the endomembrane system
The endomembrane system is a network of membranous organelles in eukaryotic cells that work together to modify, sort, and transport proteins and lipids.
Key components include:
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) – involved in protein and lipid synthesis.
Golgi complex – modifies, sorts, and packages molecules.
Lysosomes – contain digestive enzymes for breaking down cellular waste.
Vacuoles – store water, nutrients, and waste materials.
Nuclear envelope – surrounds the nucleus and regulates molecular exchange.
Transport vesicles – move materials between different parts of the system.
Step 2: Analyze the given components
The question lists the following:
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) – This is part of the endomembrane system.
Golgi complex – This is part of the endomembrane system.
Lysosomes – These are derived from the Golgi complex and are included.
Vacuoles – These are considered part of the endomembrane system.
All four are integral parts of the endomembrane system.
Step 3: Evaluate each option
(A) Only ER and Golgi complex
This is incorrect as it excludes lysosomes and vacuoles.
(B) Only lysosomes and vacuoles
Also incorrect — it omits the ER and Golgi complex.
(C) All of the above
This is correct — all listed structures are part of the endomembrane system.
(D) None of the above
Incorrect — all the listed components are valid parts of the system.
Step 4: Conclusion
All the listed structures are part of the endomembrane system.
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(C) All of the above
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