The Endoplasmic Reticulum

• What is the endoplasmic reticulum?

  An elaborate, 3D system of sheet-like membranes that spread through the cytoplasm.
• What is the endoplasmic reticulum continuous with?

  The nuclear membrane.
• What do the membranes enclose?

  A network of tubules and flattened sacs called cisternae.
• What are the two types of endoplasmic reticulum?

  Rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
• What does the rough endoplasmic reticulum have on it that the smooth doesn’t?

  Ribosomes of the surfaces of the membrane.
• Which endoplasmic reticulum is more tubular in appearance?

  The smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
• What are the functions of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?

  To provide a large surface area for the synthesis of proteins and glycoproteins, and to provide a pathway for the transport of materials throughout the cell, especially proteins.
• What are the functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

  To synthesise, store and transport lipids and carbohydrates.
• What cells have an extensive endoplasmic reticulum?


  Cells that manufacture and store large quantities of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates.
• What’s an example of a cell with an extensive endoplasmic reticulum?

  Epithelial cells that line the intestine.