AP BIOLOGY

THE CELL

STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF THE CELL

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
What is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
A
synthesis of membrane lipids and detoxification of drugs
B
break down organelles that have outlived their usefulness
C
break down lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins
D
protein synthesis
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -The smooth endoplasmic reticulum functions in many metabolic processes. It synthesizes lipids, phospholipids as in plasma membranes, and steroids. Cells that secrete these products, such as cells of the testes, ovaries, and skin oil glands, have an excess of smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

Detailed explanation-2: -Smooth endoplasmic reticulum in liver cells of vertebrates helps in detoxifying poisons and drugs. It contains enzymes that catalyze a number of reactions that can make lipid-soluble drugs and metabolic wastes into water-soluble so that these can easily be expelled out from the body.

Detailed explanation-3: -Liver cells of some vertebrates have smooth endoplasmic reticulum which helps in detoxifying certain drugs and poison from the body.

Detailed explanation-4: -Smooth ER is responsible for the synthesis of essential lipids such as phospholipids and cholesterol. Smooth ER is also responsible for the production and secretion of steroid hormones. It is also responsible for the metabolism of carbohydrates.

Detailed explanation-5: -Explanation: Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) synthesizes lipids and detoxifies harmful substances.

There is 1 question to complete.