SC-009 Science Collection

Endoplasmic Reticulum

A membrane network that helps process proteins, make lipids and move materials within the cell.

Established Biology Series 1: The Anatomy of a Cell · Part 7 of 9

What it is

The endoplasmic reticulum, or ER, is a connected network of membrane sacs and tubes. Rough ER carries ribosomes and helps fold and process proteins. Smooth ER makes lipids and stores calcium.

Why it matters

The ER helps supply proteins and lipids for membranes and secretion. In specialized cells, it also contributes to drug processing and calcium control, including the calcium release used in muscle contraction.

References

  1. Clark MA, Douglas M, Choi J. Biology 2e, section 4.4: The Endomembrane System and Proteins. OpenStax, 2018. Accessed 20 October 2026. openstax.org

Related records

Library records describe established biology and published research. They do not describe an effect of any Natal Health product. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

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