Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a vital cellular structure that functions like a manufacturing and packaging system within cells. It consists of a network of tubules and sacs. The rough ER, with ribosomes attached, produces proteins, while the smooth ER helps make lipids and detoxifies harmful substances. It also helps transport these molecules to other parts of the cell. Overall, the ER is essential for building, processing, and distributing key molecules that keep the cell healthy and functioning properly.