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Question 558
Biochemistry → General
Classification
Question
SSBAQuestion Header
Which structural description best characterises the endoplasmic reticulum?
Question Stem
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Options
A
Isolated vesicles derived exclusively from the Golgi apparatus
B
A network of interconnected tubular and vesicular cisternae forming a link between nucleus and cell membrane
C
Non-membranous filaments extending from nucleus to cell periphery
D
A double-membrane organelle containing cristae
E
Hollow cylinders composed of tubulin
Explanation
The endoplasmic reticulum is a network of tubular and microsomal vesicular structures termed cisternae. These structures are interconnected, membrane-bound and contain endoplasmic matrix within their lumen. The ER forms a link between the nucleus and cell membrane.
Option Validity
A) The ER is an interconnected network rather than isolated Golgi-derived vesicles.
C) This is more consistent with cytoskeletal organisation than ER structure.
D) A double membrane with cristae characterises mitochondria.
E) Hollow tubulin-containing structures are microtubules.
Further Reading
Saxena R. Textbook for MRCOG-1: Basic Sciences in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. Chapter 4 — Endoplasmic Reticulum. Printed pages 124–125.