Endoplasmic Reticulum

Endoplasmic Reticulum

The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) is a type of organelle found in eukaryotic cells that forms an interconnected network of flattened, membrane-enclosed sacs or tube-like structures known as cisternae. The membranes of the ER are continuous with the nuclear envelope that surrounds the nucleus.

Function

The endoplasmic reticulum serves many general functions, including the facilitation of protein synthesis and lipid metabolism. It also has a more specialized function in cells such as neurons, and in this context, is referred to as the neuronal endoplasmic reticulum.

Protein synthesis and folding

The ER is the site of the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. These proteins include those that will remain within the ER, as well as those that are transported to other parts of the cell, or those that are secreted from the cell.

Lipid metabolism

The ER is involved in the synthesis of lipids. It is the site of the production of lipids for the cell membrane, and also produces lipoproteins, which are proteins that carry lipids through the bloodstream.

Structure

The structure of the ER can be categorized into two types: the rough ER and the smooth ER. The rough ER is studded with ribosomes, which are the sites of protein synthesis. The smooth ER, on the other hand, is not associated with ribosomes, and is involved in lipid synthesis.

Diseases related to the Endoplasmic Reticulum

Dysfunction of the endoplasmic reticulum is associated with several diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes. In these diseases, the ER stress response is believed to be involved in the pathogenesis.

See also

• Cell (biology)
• Organelle
• Protein synthesis
• Lipid metabolism
• Neuronal endoplasmic reticulum
• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Diabetes

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