Question

Which cell organelle plays a crucial role in detoxifying many poisons and drugs in a cell?

• A. Golgi apparatus
• B. Lysosomes
• C. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Vacuoles

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum

The correct option is C.

Explanation of correct option:

1. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is a cell organelle that is found near the nuclear envelope.
2. They are disc-like tubular membrane vesicles.
3. They are involved in the synthesis and storage of lipids and cholesterol.
4. In liver cells, it helps in the detoxification process.
5. The enzymes secreted by SER help in the detoxification of many poisons and drugs.
6. Hence liver cells are rich in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Golgi apparatus is a cell organelle that helps in sorting and packaging proteins

Option B:

1. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles that have hydrolytic enzymes.
2. These enzymes are capable of digesting old cell organelles, viruses bacteria, etc.
3. They are also called suicidal bags as they can digest the whole cell if it is damaged beyond repair through a process called programmed cell death.

Option D:

1. Vacuoles are membrane bound cell organelles.
2. In animal cells, they are small and stores water ion and waste.
3. In-plant cell vacuoles are large and help in water storage and they maintain the turgidity of the cell.

Final answer: Smooth endoplasmic reticulum plays a crucial role in detoxifying many poisons and drugs in a cell.