Ultrastructure of cells · USMLE Step 1

Which ultrastructural feature is most likely to be seen in a cell with active protein secretion (e.g., a plasma cell producing antibodies)?

  1. Large numbers of mitochondria and few ribosomes
  2. Prominent rough ER with abundant Golgi cisternae
  3. Many peroxisomes together with abundant lysosomes
  4. An expansive smooth endoplasmic reticulum network
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Correct answer: Prominent rough ER with abundant Golgi cisternae

Cells specialized for protein secretion typically show extensive rough ER (for synthesis) and an expanded Golgi apparatus (for protein processing and packaging), visible under EM as abundant cisternae.

Difficulty: Medium Question 9 of 21

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