What are membrane-bound transport vesicles commonly known as?

Prepare for the Natural Science 2 (NAS 2) Exam with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to enhance understanding and readiness.

Membrane-bound transport vesicles are commonly known as liposomes. Liposomes are spherical vesicles that are composed of a lipid bilayer, which makes them effective in encapsulating other substances, such as drugs, enzymes, or genetic material. They play a critical role in various biological processes, including the transport of molecules within cells and across cellular membranes.

Liposomes are specifically designed to mimic cellular membranes, allowing them to fuse with target cells and deliver their contents effectively. This characteristic is significant in research and therapeutic applications, particularly in drug delivery systems where it is essential to protect the encapsulated substances until they reach their target.

In contrast, the other choices refer to different structures with distinct functions. Cisternae are flattened membrane-bound compartments that are part of the endoplasmic reticulum or Golgi apparatus and are primarily involved in storage and processing of proteins. Lysosomes are specialized organelles filled with digestive enzymes responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. Ribosomes are molecular machines that synthesize proteins from amino acids based on the instructions from messenger RNA. Each of these structures plays pivotal roles in cellular function but does not specifically refer to transport vesicles.

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