An individual was on a fast for a long period of time. Which cell organelle would be the most likely one to respond to the distress signal?

Options

A. (a) Nucleolus
B. (b) ER
C. (c) Golgi complex
D. (d) Lysosome

Answer

To determine which cell organelle would respond to a distress signal during a prolonged fast, we can analyze the functions of the given options:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Context**:
- When an individual is fasting for a long time, the body experiences a lack of nutrients and energy sources. This situation creates a distress signal within the cells that needs to be addressed.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A: Nucleolus**
- The nucleolus is responsible for producing ribosomal subunits. It does not play a role in responding to distress signals related to nutrient deprivation.
- **Conclusion**: Not the correct answer.

- **Option B: Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)**
- The ER is involved in protein synthesis (rough ER) and lipid synthesis (smooth ER). While it is essential for cellular functions, it does not directly respond to distress signals during starvation.
- **Conclusion**: Not the correct answer.

- **Option C: Golgi Complex**
- The Golgi apparatus modifies, packages, and secretes proteins. Similar to the ER, it is crucial for protein processing but does not respond to starvation signals.
- **Conclusion**: Not the correct answer.

- **Option D: Lysosomes**
- Lysosomes are known as cellular scavengers. They break down waste materials and can recycle cellular components. During starvation, lysosomes scavenge essential metabolic building blocks to sustain biosynthetic reactions and provide energy.
- **Conclusion**: This is the correct answer.

3. **Final Answer**:
- The organelle that would most likely respond to the distress signal during a prolonged fast is **Lysosomes (Option D)**. They play a critical role in managing cellular resources during times of nutrient scarcity.