Functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum include which of the following?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Synthesis of lipids
• C. DNA replication
• D. Protein synthesis

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) in a cell. The SER is an organelle found in both animal and plant cells, and it is distinct from the rough endoplasmic reticulum due to the absence of ribosomes on its surface.
2. Recognize that the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is primarily involved in the synthesis of lipids, including phospholipids and cholesterol, which are essential components of cell membranes.
3. Note that the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, detoxification of drugs and poisons, and storage of calcium ions.
4. Differentiate the functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum from other cellular processes such as photosynthesis, which occurs in chloroplasts, and DNA replication, which occurs in the nucleus.
5. Identify that protein synthesis is primarily associated with the rough endoplasmic reticulum, where ribosomes are present, rather than the smooth endoplasmic reticulum.