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Endoplasmic reticulum — primary function
publish date: 2026/06/16 20:56:44.432533 UTC
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What is the endoplasmic reticulum — a series of double-layered membranes found throughout the cytoplasm that greatly increases the surface area available for enzymes involved in chemical reactions, particularly those leading to protein synthesis?
Correct Answer
endoplasmic reticulum
Explanation
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a series of double-layered membranes found throughout the cytoplasm. It greatly increases the surface area available for enzymes involved in chemical reactions — particularly those leading to protein synthesis. The rough ER is studded with ribosomes and is directly involved in protein manufacture; the smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
Reference
Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide