Eukaryotes - Endoplasmic Reticulum

Description:

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are a network of tiny tubular structures that remain scattered in the cytoplasm. ER divides intercellular space into luminal (inside ER) and extra luminal (cytoplasm) compartments.

Some ER has ribosomes attached to their outer surface, because of this it gives a rough appearance hence are called rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).

ER which does not have ribosomes attached to their outer surface gives a smooth appearance and hence they are called smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER).

RER is found in cells which are actively involved in protein synthesis. SER is the major site for synthesis of lipids.