ER Structure: RER vs. SER Key Difference
The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes within eukaryotic cells. It exists in two forms:
- Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER): Studded with ribosomes on its outer surface. Involved primarily in protein synthesis and modification.
- Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER): Lacks ribosomes. Involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and calcium storage.
Identifying the Main Distinction
The presence or absence of ribosomes is the fundamental difference distinguishing RER from SER. Ribosomes attached to the RER surface give it a 'rough' appearance and enable it to synthesize proteins destined for secretion or insertion into membranes.
Therefore, the key difference lies in the attachment of ribosomes.
The correct option is 4. ribosomes.
Important Questions from Genetics and Evolution
Different varieties of the same gene are called
In a sexually reproducing organism, which one of the following statements is appropriate both for the parent and offspring?
In most prokaryotes, the chromosome number is:
Bacterial DNA is referred to as naked because it is not associated with:
The two important features of sexual reproduction in higher organisms that create genetic diversity in offspring are
