The endoplasmic reticulum, or ER, is a crucial component of eukaryotic cells, functioning as the production hub and transport system for proteins, fats, and several vital molecules.
Unveiling the Differences Between RER and SER
Not all cells possess an endoplasmic reticulum. For instance, red blood cells are devoid of an ER. However, cells that are heavily involved in protein and oil production are typically abundant in ER. There are two structural types of endoplasmic reticulum, namely:
Rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)
Distinguishing Between Smooth and Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
The primary difference between RER and SER lies in the presence of ribosomes. The rough appearance of the RER is due to the ribosomes attached to its surface. In contrast, the SER lacks ribosomes on its surface, hence its smooth appearance.
The table below encapsulates the significant differences between the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and rough endoplasmic reticulum:
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)
Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)
Ribosomes are attached to its membrane.
Its membrane is devoid of ribosomes.
Composed of cisternae and few tubules.
Composed primarily of vesicles and tubules.
Synthesizes enzymes and proteins.
Synthesizes glycogen, lipids, and steroids.
Involved in the formation of lysosomes.
Gives rise to Spherosomes/ Oleosomes.
Connected internally with the nuclear envelope.
Located peripherally and may be connected to plasmalemma.
Ribophorins are present, facilitating ribosome attachment.
Lacks Ribophorins.
May develop from the nuclear envelope.
Develops from the Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum.
Supplies proteins and lipids to the Golgi apparatus.
Provides vesicles for the cis-face of the Golgi apparatus.
The key takeaway is that the presence or absence of ribosomes differentiates smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, with only the latter featuring ribosomes on its surface.
The most basic difference between RER and SER is the presence of ribosomes. RER has ribosomes on its surface, giving it a rough appearance, while SER does not have ribosomes on its surface.
What are the major differences between the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and rough endoplasmic reticulum?
Major differences include the presence of ribosomes, their formation, the substances they synthesise, their location within the cell, and their development.
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