Which cell organelle is involved in the transport of proteins?

Study for the Mississippi MAAP Biology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a critical organelle involved in the transport of proteins within a cell. It is a network of membranes that extends throughout the cytoplasm and comes in two forms: rough and smooth. The rough endoplasmic reticulum is studded with ribosomes, which are responsible for the synthesis of proteins that are either secreted from the cell, incorporated into the cell's plasma membrane, or sent to an organelle. Once proteins are synthesized on the ribosomes, they are folded and processed within the rough ER before being transported to their next destination.

In contrast, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid synthesis and does not play a direct role in protein transport. Other organelles mentioned, such as vacuoles and the cytoplasm, have different functions—vacuoles are involved in storage and maintenance of cell turgor while the cytoplasm serves as the medium that houses organelles but does not facilitate the protein transport itself. Thus, the endoplasmic reticulum is essential for maintaining the protein transport processes that support cellular function and organization.

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