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What is the function of the endoplasmic reticulum in the cell?
Posted August 19, 2021
Answer
The endoplasmic reticulum performs several functions in the cell including:
- Production and synthesis of proteins
- Transportation of proteins to another organelle such as the Golgi apparatus, plasma membrane or lysosomes
- Formation of nuclear membrane during cell division
- Synthesis of lipids, glycogen and steroids such as progesterone and testosterone
- Increasing surface area for cellular reactions
There are two types of endoplasmic reticulum – smooth and rough. Both have slightly different function. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for:
- Synthesis of essential lipids such as cholesterol and phospholipids
- Maintenance of calcium homeostasis
- Metabolism of carbohydrates
- Production and secretion of steroid hormones
The rough endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for:
- Synthesis of proteins and enzymes
- Protein folding
- Protein sorting – Quality control
- Formation of lysosomes