Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) stress refers to a condition in which the ER, a critical organelle in cells, experiences disruption in its normal function. The ER is responsible for protein folding, lipid synthesis, and calcium storage. When the load of misfolded or unfolded proteins becomes excessive, it triggers a cellular response known as the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR), aimed at restoring normal function. If unresolved, ER stress can lead to cellular dysfunction and even cell death, impacting various physiological and pathological processes.
