Endoplasmic Reticulum Functions and Structure

📋 Course Outline

1. Endoplasmic reticulum structure and continuity
2. Smooth versus rough endoplasmic reticulum
3. RER membrane composition and lumen contents
4. SER membrane composition and lumen contents
5. RER protein translocation and N-glycosylation
6. RER protein folding, disulfide formation and quality control
7. SER phospholipid synthesis and membrane renewal
8. SER steroid hormone synthesis with cytochrome P450
9. SER calcium storage and release mechanisms
10. SER detoxification via cytochrome P450 hydroxylation

📖 1. Endoplasmic reticulum structure and continuity

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Endoplasmic reticulum: An organelle of eukaryotic cells made of membrane cisternae and tubules that forms part of the internal membrane network.
• Cisternae canaliculi vesicles: The ER is organized as a set of cavities (cisternae), channels (canaliculi), and small vesicles.
• ER lumen: The ER lumen is the internal space enclosed by the ER membrane where specific proteins and ions accumulate.
• Continuity with nuclear envelope: The ER membrane network is continuous with the nuclear envelope and connected to other compartments.
• Continuity with Golgi vesicles: The ER is connected with Golgi apparatus vesicles, linking ER membranes to the secretory pathway.

📝 Essential Points