Endoplasmic Reticulum

Definition

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle within cells that serves as a production and packaging system. It's involved in protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and detoxification processes.

Related terms

Rough ER: A type of endoplasmic reticulum covered with ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis and quality control.

Smooth ER: A type of endoplasmic reticulum without ribosomes; its functions include lipid synthesis and drug detoxification.

Golgi Apparatus:

An organelle responsible for transporting, modifying, and packaging proteins and lipids to their targeted destinations.