• The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of tubes and sheets .
  • It looks like long tubules or round or oblong bags .
  • This organelle makes and transports proteins in the cell.
  • There are two kinds of Endoplasmic Reticulum:

 

  • Rough endoplasmic reticulum(RER) : It has tiny particles called ribosomes attached to its surface thus making it look rough. 
    • It is responsible for production of proteins .
  • Smooth endoplasmic reticulum(SER) : Does not have any ribosomes attached hence looks smooth.
    • It is responsible for production of fats and steroids .

What are Ribosomes?

Ribosomes are sites for production of protein

  • So all our protein requirements are taken care of by the ribosomes and thus by the rough endoplasmic reticulum. 
  • Some of the proteins and lipids are used to build and maintain the cell membrane, in a process called membrane biogenesis .
  • Other proteins and lipids function as enzymes and hormones .
  • The Endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for storing and transporting these fats and proteins throughout the cell.
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Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo