Answer :
Final answer:
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in a cell plays a crucial role in protein and lipid synthesis, contributing significantly to cellular metabolism. It differs from the Golgi body in its specific functions related to the modification, sorting, and packaging of cellular components.
Explanation:
The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) Structure and Functions
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) is a network of membranous tubules that includes the rough ER involved in protein synthesis and the smooth ER that synthesizes lipids.
ER's Contribution to Cellular Metabolism: The ER plays a vital role in synthesizing proteins, lipids, and steroids, as well as detoxifying drugs and toxins in the cell.
Comparison with Golgi Body: While the ER synthesizes components, the Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages them for secretion or internal use within the cell.
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