Question

Which of the following functions is performed by smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

• A. Nucleic acid synthesis
• B. Production of ATP
• C. Detoxification of drugs and poisons
• D. Degradation of proteins

Hint:

Liver cells have an extensive network of Smooth ER because the liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxifying drugs and chemicals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) is a network of membranous tubules that lacks attached ribosomes.
Its primary functions include lipid and steroid synthesis, calcium storage, and metabolic detoxification.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The membrane of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum contains a variety of processing enzymes, including the Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase family.
These enzymes catalyze reactions that add hydroxyl groups to hydrophobic drugs, toxins, or metabolic byproducts.
By increasing the water solubility of these compounds, the SER allows the cell to easily excrete them from the body.
Nucleic acid synthesis takes place in the nucleus and mitochondria.
ATP production is the primary function of mitochondria.
Protein degradation is carried out by lysosomes and proteasomes.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for the enzymatic detoxification of drugs and poisons.