Which of the following cell organelles is present in the highest number in secretory cells ?

Options

A. Mitochondria
B. Lysosomes
C. Endoplasmic reticulum
D. Golgi complex

Answer

To determine which cell organelle is present in the highest number in secretory cells, let's analyze the options provided: mitochondria, lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi complex.

**Step 1: Understanding Secretory Cells**
- Secretory cells are specialized cells that produce and secrete substances such as hormones, enzymes, and other proteins. Examples include pancreatic cells that secrete insulin and salivary glands.

**Step 2: Identifying Key Organelles in Secretory Cells**
- In secretory cells, certain organelles play crucial roles in the synthesis, processing, and transport of secretory products:
- **Mitochondria**: Involved in energy production but not directly in secretion.
- **Lysosomes**: Responsible for digestion and waste processing, not primarily involved in secretion.
- **Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)**: Rough ER is involved in the synthesis of proteins, while Smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
- **Golgi Complex**: This organelle modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion.

**Step 3: Comparing the Organelles**
- While the rough ER is abundant in secretory cells due to its role in protein synthesis, the Golgi complex is critical for processing and packaging these proteins for secretion.

**Step 4: Conclusion**
- Among the options, the Golgi complex (Golgi apparatus) is present in the highest number in secretory cells because it is essential for the final processing and packaging of secretory products before they are sent out of the cell.

**Final Answer: Golgi Complex (Option D)**

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