Chapter 6: Cell structure

Cytosol

The semifluid substance inside the cell.

Chromosomes

Contain DNA, carrying genetic information.

Ribosomes

Synthesize proteins.

Plasma Membrane

Selective barrier controlling passage of materials.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Nucleus

Present in eukaryotic cells; stores genetic material (DNA) inside nuclear envelope.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

Biosynthetic factory; rough ER synthesizes proteins, smooth ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies drugs.

Golgi Apparatus

Shipping & receiving center that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins/lipids from ER.

Lysosomes

Digestive compartments that contain hydrolytic enzymes for breaking down macromolecules.

Vacuoles

Storage compartments that can hold nutrients and water in cells.

Mitochondria

Energy converters that perform cellular respiration to convert glucose into ATP.

Chloroplasts

Energy converters that perform photosynthesis and contain chlorophyll.

Cytoskeleton

Network of protein fibers that provide support and movement in the cell.

Microtubules

Components of cytoskeleton that provide shape and serve as tracks for organelle movement.

Microfilaments

Components of cytoskeleton involved in muscle contraction and cell shape changes.

Intermediate Filaments

Components of cytoskeleton that provide structural support.