Which organelle is responsible for detoxifying chemicals in the cell?

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) is crucial for detoxifying chemicals within the cell. It plays a key role in lipid metabolism and the synthesis of steroid hormones, and is particularly prominent in liver cells where detoxification processes are vital. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum contains enzymes that facilitate the modification and breakdown of harmful substances, including drugs and toxins, making them easier for the body to eliminate.

In contrast, other organelles listed have different primary functions. Lysosomes are involved in breaking down waste materials and cellular debris through the action of hydrolytic enzymes but are not specifically tasked with detoxifying chemicals. Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis and are essential for translating genes into proteins, but they do not play a role in detoxification. Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, producing ATP through cellular respiration, and are not involved in the detoxification process. Thus, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the organelle specifically designated for detoxification functions in cells.