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What is the function of endoplasmic reticulum?
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle of cells in eukaryotic organisms that forms an interconnected network of tubules, vesicles, and cisternae.
Two types of ER, such as smooth walled and rough walled, have been recognized. They may be present in the same or different types of cells.
(i) Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER): The surface of this type of reticulum is smooth as ribosomesr not attached. Smooth ER is present in cells, which are actively engaged in steroid synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, pigment production etc.
(ii) Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum: The rough ER have ribosomes attached throughout the surface. These are present in cells, which are active in protein synthesis.
Functions:
The major functions are the following:
(a) Common to both ER.
(i) Forms the skeletal framework.
(ii) Active transport of cellular materials.
(iii) Metabolic activities due to presence of different enzymes.
(iv) Provides increased surface area for cellular reactions.
(v) Formation of nuclear membrane during cell division.
(b) Function of Smooth ER.
(i) Lipid synthesis
(ii) Glycogen synthesis
(iii) Steroid synthesis like cholesterol, progesterone, testosterone, etc.
(c) Function of Round ER
(i) It provides site for protein synthesis.
(ii) It helps in transport of proteins.


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