Question

structures of the cell quick check
what would happen to a cell that lacked smooth endoplasmic reticulum? (1 point)
○ it would not be able to produce trna
○ it would not be able to replicate dna
○ it would not be able to make lipids
○ its cell membrane would be impermeable.

Explanation:

1. Recall the function of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER): SER is primarily involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and carbohydrate metabolism in some cells.
2. Analyze each option:

• "It would not be able to produce tRNA": tRNA production is related to the nucleus and nucleolus, not SER. Eliminate this option.
• "It would not be able to replicate DNA": DNA replication occurs in the nucleus (and cytoplasm for some organelles like mitochondria), and SER is not involved in DNA replication. Eliminate this option.
• "It would not be able to make lipids": Since SER is responsible for lipid synthesis, a cell lacking SER would not be able to make lipids. This option is correct.
• "Its cell membrane would be impermeable": The permeability of the cell membrane is determined by its lipid - protein composition and transport proteins, not the absence of SER. Eliminate this option.

Answer:

It would not be able to make lipids.