sarcoplasmic reticulum

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sarcoplasmic reticulum A network of membranes that run both longitudinally and transversely across striated muscle cells. Apparently, the longitudinal channels are derived from the endoplasmic reticulum and are not in direct communication with those running transversely (T-system), which are derived from the cell membrane. The function of the sarcoplasmic reticulum is to act as a store for calcium ions (Ca++) involved in the contractile process.

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