The rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) has ribosomes attached to its outer surface, while the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) does not. These ribosomes allow the RER to play a significant role in protein synthesis. The SER, on the other hand, is instead involved in making and storing lipids. Thus, the presence or absence of ribosomes gives the two types of endoplasmic reticulum different appearances and functions.
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