Endoplasmic Reticulum Chaperones

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperones are specialized proteins within cells that assist in the proper folding and processing of other proteins. As proteins are made, ER chaperones ensure they achieve the correct structure, preventing misfolding that could lead to cell dysfunction. They act like quality control agents, guiding proteins to their correct shapes and helping refold or degrade those that are misassembled. This process is essential for cell health, supporting the production of functional proteins necessary for various biological activities. Without ER chaperones, cells would struggle to maintain proper protein function, leading to potential disease.