Endoplasmic Reticulum and Ribosomes

Endoplasmic Reticulum

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle found in eukaryotic cells only. The ER has a double membrane consisting of a network of hollow tubes, flattened sheets, and round sacs. These flattened, hollow folds and sacs are called cisternae. The ER is located in the cytoplasm and is connected to the nuclear envelope. There are two types of endoplasmic reticulum: smooth and rough ER.

Smooth ER

Does not have any ribosomes attached. It is involved in the synthesis of lipids, including oils, phospholipids and steroids. It is also responsible for metabolism of carbohydrates, regulation of calcium concentration and detoxification of drugs.

Rough ER

Is covered with ribosomes giving the endoplasmic reticulum its rough appearance. It is responsible for protein synthesis and plays a role in membrane production. The folds present in the membrane increase the surface area allowing more ribosomes to be present on the ER, thereby allowing greater protein production.

Schematic Diagram	Micrograph
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Ribosomes

Ribosomes are composed of RNA and protein. They occur in the cytoplasm and are the sites where protein synthesis occurs. Ribosomes may occur singly in the cytoplasm or in groups or may be attached to the endoplasmic reticulum thus forming the rough endoplasmic reticulum. Ribosomes are important for protein production. Together with a structure known as messenger RNA (a type of nucleic acid) ribosomes form a structure known as a polyribosome which is important in protein synthesis.

Diagram: Free Ribosome	Diagram: Polyribosome