What is Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)?
Proteins are needed for the body to function properly. They are the basis of body structures and are used to synthesize enzymes and antibodies in cells. Proteins are synthesized in our cells. However, newly synthesized proteins are not functional yet. To be functional, they should mature inside of a cellular compartment called the Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER). It is like that a baby is growing in the uterus. In the lumen of the ER, proteins obtain their proper three-dimensional structure and mature to carry out their functions (i.e., become functional). This process is called protein folding. ER has an essential function in this process, especially for secreted protein and receptors such as insulin, amyloid beta and serotonin transporter. Defects of these proteins have been known to cause diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and bipolar disorder respectively. What are “Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress (ER stress) Diseases”? Protein folding in the ER is crucial for us. However, in some instances, t
