Question

What is smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

Answer 1

Endoplasmic reticulum:

Based on the presence of ribosomes, the endoplasmic reticulum present in the cells are of two types namely,

Rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER): contains ribosomes

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER): lacks ribosomes

1. SER functions to aid in the synthesis and storage of lipids, steroids and hormones.
2. It also stores calcium ions needed for the nervous system and muscular systems.
3. It helps in the metabolism of carbohydrates.