Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

Which organelle is associated with the production and metabolism of fats and steroid hormones within the cell?

1. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum

2. The Golgi apparatus

3. The mitochondria

4. The nucleus

The correct answer is: The smooth endoplasmic reticulum

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the correct answer because it plays a crucial role in the synthesis of lipids, including fats and steroid hormones, within the cell. Unlike the rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is studded with ribosomes for protein synthesis, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum lacks ribosomes and is specialized for lipid-related functions. Additionally, it is involved in the detoxification of certain chemicals and the storage of calcium ions, which are essential for various cellular processes. Its structure consists of a network of membranes that form interconnected tubules and vesicles, providing a large surface area for these metabolic processes. In contrast, the Golgi apparatus is primarily responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles but does not directly produce fats or steroids. Mitochondria are mainly known for energy production through respiration and the generation of ATP, while the nucleus houses genetic material and is involved in gene expression but does not directly participate in the metabolism of fats or steroid hormones. Thus, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is specifically tailored to lipid synthesis and metabolism, making it the correct choice.