What is the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

a network of tubular membranes within the cytoplasm of the cell, occurring either with a smooth surface (smooth endoplasmic reticulum) or studded with ribosomes (rough endoplasmic reticulum) involved in the transport of materials. read more

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is found in a variety of cell types (both animal and plant), and it serves different functions in each. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum also contains the enzyme glucose-6-phosphatase, which converts glucose-6-phosphate to glucose, a step in gluconeogenesis. read more

In cell: The smooth endoplasmic reticulum The functions of the SER, a meshwork of fine tubular membrane vesicles, vary considerably from cell to cell. One important role is the synthesis of phospholipids and cholesterol, which are major components of the plasma and internal membranes. read more

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the site of the breakdown of toxins and carcinogens in the liver, the conversion of cholesterol into steroids in the gonads and adrenal glands, and the release of calcium ions in the muscles, causing muscle contraction. read more