Which organelle detoxifies chemicals and makes lipids?

• A. Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
• B. Golgi apparatus
• C. Nucleus
• D. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

Answer: (D)

Detoxifying chemicals and making lipids are functions tied to the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. This part of the ER hosts enzymes, such as cytochrome P450s, that add polar groups to hydrophobic compounds, making them easier to eliminate from the cell. At the same time, it synthesizes lipids like phospholipids and cholesterol, which are essential for membranes and steroid production.

In contrast, rough endoplasmic reticulum is studded with ribosomes and specializes in protein synthesis; the Golgi apparatus processes and packages those proteins (and lipids) for transport; the nucleus houses genetic material and governs cellular activities. So the smooth ER best fits both detoxification and lipid production.