Question

How is endoplasmic reticulum important for membrane biogenesis?

Answer 1

The plasma membrane is made up of phospholipids and proteins. The endoplasmic reticulum forms dynamic network of interconnected membrane tubules in the cytoplasm of cell. They are of two types. Rough endoplasmic reticulum (containing ribosomes on surface) and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (without ribosomes on surface). The rough endoplasmic reticulum is the main site for the synthesis of proteins and while smooth endoplasmic synthesises lipids.

Thus, endoplasmic reticulum acts as main site for synthesis of proteins and lipids which are needed for the biogenesis of plasma membrane. Hence, plays important role in membrane biogenesis.