Difference Between Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

In this article we will discuss about difference between rough endoplasmic reticulum and smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

1. Structure: The rough ER have ribosomes on its surface, giving it a rough appearance, while the smooth ER lacks ribosomes and appears smooth.

2. Protein Synthesis: The rough ER main function is synthesis of proteins. The ribosomes on its surface synthesize proteins that are destined for secretion, incorporation into the cell membrane, or transport to other organelles. The smooth ER is not directly involved in protein synthesis.

3. Lipid Metabolism: The smooth ER is involved in various lipid metabolism processes, such as the synthesis of lipids, including phospholipids and cholesterol. It also plays a role in steroid hormones synthesis and detoxification of drugs and toxins.

4. Calcium Storage: The smooth ER acts as a calcium reservoir within the cell (Muscle fibers). It is essential for various cellular processes, including muscle contraction and signal transduction.

5. Detoxification: The smooth ER contains enzymes that participate in the detoxification and metabolism of drugs, toxins, and harmful substances. These enzymes help to modify, break down these substances and making them more water-soluble for excretion from the cell.

6. Glycogen Metabolism: The smooth ER is involved in glycogen metabolism in certain cell types. It control the synthesis and breakdown of glycogen, which is a stored form of glucose.

7. Membrane Synthesis: The rough ER is responsible for synthesizing and assembling membrane proteins and phospholipids. The main function is biogenesis of the cell membrane and the membranes of other organelles.

8. Intracellular Transport: The rough ER serves as the entry point for newly synthesized proteins into the endomembrane system. It helps packaging proteins into transport vesicles that carry them to the Golgi apparatus.

9. Secretory Functions: The rough ER is involved in the synthesis and processing of proteins destined for secretion.

10. Rough ER in Specialized Cells: In certain specialized cells, such as plasma cells and pancreatic cells, the rough ER is highly developed to support the production of large amounts of proteins, such as antibodies and digestive enzymes, respectively.

Summary: Difference Between Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

• Pinocytosis involves the uptake of small fluid droplets and solutes, while phagocytosis involves The rough ER is studded with ribosomes and is involved in protein synthesis, while the smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid metabolism.
• The rough ER is responsible for synthesizing and processing proteins, while the smooth ER is involved in various metabolic processes, including lipid synthesis and detoxification.
• The rough ER is important for membrane biogenesis and intracellular transport, while the smooth ER regulates calcium storage, glycogen metabolism, and drug detoxification.
• The rough ER is involved in secretory functions and is highly developed in specialized cells.

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