A cell with extensive smooth ER and few lysosomes most likely specialises in:

Correct answer: (a) Detoxification of xenobiotics

Explanation

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) makes lipids and steroids and detoxifies drugs, alcohol and other foreign chemicals (xenobiotics). Its enzymes, such as the cytochrome P450 enzymes, make these substances easier to excrete.

Cells that do this work, such as liver cells (hepatocytes), have an extensive smooth ER. Few lysosomes suggest that the cell does little digestion of material.

• Protein secretion needs rough ER and the Golgi.
• Glycolysis happens in the cytoplasm.
• Phagocytosis needs many lysosomes.