Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)

Definition

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is a type of endoplasmic reticulum lacking ribosomes on its surface. It is primarily involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and calcium ion storage within cells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The SER is involved in the synthesis of lipids, including phospholipids and steroids.
2. It plays a critical role in detoxifying chemicals and metabolizing drugs in liver cells.
3. SER stores and releases calcium ions, which are essential for muscle contraction and various signaling pathways.
4. Unlike the rough endoplasmic reticulum, the SER does not have ribosomes attached to its membrane.
5. Cells that produce large amounts of hormones or lipids often have an abundance of smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

Review Questions

• What are the primary functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
• How does the structure of the SER differ from that of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?
• In what types of cells would you expect to find an abundance of SER?

Related terms

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER): The RER has ribosomes attached to its surface and is involved in protein synthesis and folding.

Golgi Apparatus: An organelle responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Lysosome: A membrane-bound organelle containing enzymes that digest macromolecules, old cell parts, and microorganisms.