Endomembrane system

Endomembrane system is a complex and dynamic network in the cell that partitions the cell into structural and functional components, or organelles. It includes the nuclear envelope, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, various kinds of vesicles, endosomes, and the cell membrane, and the spaces inside these organelles.

Function[edit | edit source]

The endomembrane system serves several major functions: protein synthesis, protein folding, transport of proteins, lipids, and other molecules within cells, metabolism and movement of lipids, and detoxification of metabolic products.

Components[edit | edit source]

Nuclear Envelope[edit | edit source]

The nuclear envelope is a double membrane that encloses the cell's nucleus. It serves to separate the genetic material from the rest of the cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum[edit | edit source]

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a type of organelle in the cells of eukaryotic organisms that forms an interconnected network of flattened, membrane-enclosed sacs or tubes known as cisternae.

Golgi Apparatus[edit | edit source]

The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi complex, Golgi body, or simply the Golgi, is an organelle found in most eukaryotic cells.

Lysosomes[edit | edit source]

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles with roles in processes involved in degrading and recycling cellular waste, cellular signalling and energy metabolism.

Vesicles and Endosomes[edit | edit source]

Vesicles and endosomes are small, membrane-enclosed sacs that transport and store substances within a cell from one cell to another.

Cell Membrane[edit | edit source]

The cell membrane is a biological membrane that separates the interior of all cells from the outside environment.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Endomembrane system Resources
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