Question

Differentiate between Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER).

Answer 1

Ribosomes

Rough endoplasmic reticulum has ribosomes on its surface whereas smooth endoplasmic reticulum has no ribosomes.


Structure

RER is formed mostly of cisternae whereas SER is formed of vesicles and tubules.

Function

RER is involved in synthesis of protein and enzymes whereas SER is specialised in synthesis of lipids, glycogen and steroids.

Location

RER is extensive and continuous with the outer membrane of the nucleus. SER is often peripheral.

Summary:

Difference between Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

Criteria	RER	SER
Ribosomes	Present on the surface	Absent
Structure	Formed of cisternae and few tubules	Vesicles and tubules
Function	Synthesis of protein	Synthesis of lipids, glycogen, steroids etc.
Location	Continuous with the outer membrane of the nucleus	Often peripheral