What is the Endoplasmic Reticulum?
The endoplasmic reticulum, one of the numerous cell organelles found in the cell, is structured in a network made up of tubular membranes and compressed sacs found within the cytoplasm.It is absent in prokaryotes but is present in all eukaryotes except mammalian Red Blood Cells and germinal cells. The endoplasmic reticulum is quite large in size and extends across the cell and is present above the nucleus.
Endoplasmic Reticulum – Structure, Types And Functions
Endoplasmic reticulum is an important cell organelle present in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The structure of the Endoplasmic reticulum comprises membranous tubules that are interconnected and carry out major cellular functions like protein synthesis, breakdown of carbohydrates, lipid synthesis, storage of calcium, etc. Based on the presence or absence of ribosomes, the Endoplasmic reticulum is divided into RER (Rough Endoplasmic reticulum) and SER (Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum) respectively.
The Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum is primarily concerned with protein synthesis. On the other hand, the Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum does not have ribosomes and thus, is responsible for lipid synthesis. If there is any disruption in the functioning of the ER, it may lead to diseases like Parkinson’s and Cystic Fibrosis.
Table of Content
- Defining Endoplasmic Reticulum
- What is the Endoplasmic Reticulum?
- Diagram of Endoplasmic Reticulum
- Structure of Endoplasmic Reticulum
- Types of Endoplasmic Reticulum
- Difference between SER and RER
- Functions of Endoplasmic Reticulum