Structure
The general structure of the endoplasmic reticulum is a membranous network of cisternae (sac-like structures) held together by the cytoskeleton. The phospholipid membrane encloses a space, the cisternal space (or lumen), which is continuous with the perinuclear space but separate from the cytosol. The functions of the endoplasmic reticulum vary greatly depending on its cell type, cell function, and cell needs. The ER can even modify to change over time in response to cell needs. The three most common varieties are called rough endoplasmic reticulum, smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and sarcoplasmic reticulum.
The quantity of RER and SER in a cell can slowly interchange from one type to the other, depending on changing metabolic needs. Transformation can include embedment of new proteins in membrane as well as structural changes. Massive changes may also occur in protein content without noticeable structural changes.
Read more about this topic: Endoplasmic Reticulum
Famous quotes containing the word structure:
“... the structure of a page of good prose is, analyzed logically, not something frozen but the vibrating of a bridge, which changes with every step one takes on it.”
—Robert Musil (1880–1942)
“A special feature of the structure of our book is the monstrous but perfectly organic part that eavesdropping plays in it.”
—Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977)
“Communism is a proposition to structure the world more reasonably, a proposition for changing the world. As such, we have to analyze it and, if we deem it reasonable, act upon it.”
—Friedrich Dürrenmatt (1921–1990)