Endoplasmic Reticulum

“A
continuous membrane syste
m that forms a series of
flattened sacs within
the cytoplasm of eukaryotic
cells and serves multiple
functions being important
particularly in the synthesis,
folding, modification, and
transport of proteins”
All eukaryotic cells contain
an endoplasmic reticulum
(ER). In animal cells, the ER
usually constitutes more than
half of the membranous
content of the cell.
 Structure of the Endoplasmic Reticulum:
The endoplasmic reticulum membrane system can be
morphologically divided into two structures cisternae and sheets.
Cisternae are tubular in structure and form a three-dimensional
polygonal network. They are re about 50 nm in diameter in mammals
and 30 nm in diameter in yeast. ER sheets on the other hand are
membrane-enclosed, two-dimensional flattened sacs that extend
across the cytoplasm. They are frequently associated with ribosomes
and special proteins called translocons that are necessary for protein
translation within the RER.
Lumen is the area of the endoplasmic reticulum that is enclosed by
the ER membrane. As such it is an extensive area located within the
membranes of the ER.
Differences in certain physical and functional characteristics
distinguish the two types of ER known as rough ER and smooth ER.
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum:
RER is named for its rough appearance which is due to
the ribosomes attached to its outer (cytoplasmic) surface. Rough ER
lies immediately adjacent to the cell nucleus and its membrane is
continuous with the outer membrane of the nuclear envelope. The
ribosomes on rough ER specialize in the synthesis of proteins that
possess a signal sequence that directs them specifically to the ER for
processing.
The proximity of the rough ER to the cell nucleus gives the ER unique
control over protein processing. The rough ER is able to rapidly send
signals to the nucleus when problems in protein synthesis and folding
occur and thereby influences the overall rate of protein translation.
When misfolded or unfolded proteins accumulate in the ER lumen, a
signaling mechanism known as the unfolded protein response (UPR) is
activated. The response is adaptive such that UPR activation triggers
reductions in protein synthesis and enhancements in ER protein-folding
capacity and ER-associated protein degradation. If the adaptive
response fails cells are directed to undergo apoptosis (programmed cell
death)..
Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum by contrast, is not
associated with ribosomes and its functions differ. The
smooth ER is involved in the synthesis of lipids
including cholesterol and phospholipids which are
used in the production of new cellular membrane. In
certain cell types, smooth ER plays an important role
in the synthesis of steroid hormones from cholesterol.
In cells of the liver it contributes to the detoxification
of drugs and harmful chemicals. The sarcoplasmic
reticulum is a specialized type of smooth ER that
regulates the calcium ion concentration in the
cytoplasm of striated muscle cells.
Functions of Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
y It is mainly responsible for the transportation of
proteins and other carbohydrates to another organelle,
which includes lysosomes, Golgi apparatus, plasma
membrane, etc.
y They provide the increased surface area for cellular
reactions.
y They help in the formation of nuclear membrane
during cell division.
y They play a vital role in the formation of the skeletal
framework.
y They play a vital role in the synthesis of proteins,
lipids, glycogen and other steroids like cholesterol,
progesterone, testosterone, etc.