Question

Why is the endoplasmic reticulum called the supporting framework of the cell?

Answer 1

The Endoplasmic reticulum is a large network of membrane-bound tubes and sheets. There are two types of ER(Endoplasmic Reticulum): smooth and rough. The RER (Rough ER) has ribosomes attached to its surface, while no ribosomes are attached to SER(Soft ER). The RER is involved in the process of protein synthesis. The SER helps in the manufacture of fat molecules, or lipids, important for cell function.

One function of the ER is to serve as channels for the transport of materials (especially proteins) between various regions of the cytoplasm or between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Lysosomes are associated with the breakdown of cellular waste material. The ER also functions as a cytoplasmic framework providing a surface for some biochemical activities of the cell or They play a vital role in the formation of the skeletal framework. (hence ER also called supporting framework of the cell).

Please check the image given below you can easily understand why ER is called supporting framework