The Endoplasmic Reticulum Flashcards
What is the endoplasmic reticulum?
An elaborate, 3D system of sheet-like membranes that spread through the cytoplasm.
What is the endoplasmic reticulum continuous with?
The nuclear membrane.
What do the membranes enclose?
A network of tubules and flattened sacs called cisternae.
What are the two types of endoplasmic reticulum?
Rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
What does the rough endoplasmic reticulum have on it that the smooth doesn’t?
Ribosomes of the surfaces of the membrane.
Which endoplasmic reticulum is more tubular in appearance?
The smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
What are the functions of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?
To provide a large surface area for the synthesis of proteins and glycoproteins, and to provide a pathway for the transport of materials throughout the cell, especially proteins.
What are the functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
To synthesise, store and transport lipids and carbohydrates.
What cells have an extensive endoplasmic reticulum?
Cells that manufacture and store large quantities of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates.
What’s an example of a cell with an extensive endoplasmic reticulum?
Epithelial cells that line the intestine.
