Patho study Guide WK 1

What is essential for an understanding of disease?

An understanding of cellular biology.

What is at the heart of cellular biology?

Cellular communication, also known as cellular crosstalk.

What are the two major classes of living cells?

Eukaryotes and prokaryotes.

Which types of cells are classified as eukaryotes?

The cells of higher animals and plants, as well as single-celled organisms like fungi, protozoa, and most algae.

What is a key characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

They lack a distinct nucleus and organelles.

What do eukaryotic cells contain that prokaryotic cells do not?

Membrane-bound intracellular compartments called organelles.

How does the genetic information differ between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells have genetic information in a single circular chromosome, while eukaryotic cells have several chromosomes.

What are the eight chief cellular functions?

Movement, conductivity, metabolic absorption, secretion, excretion, respiration, reproduction, and communication.

What is the function of muscle cells?

To generate forces that produce movement.

What is the primary function of nerve cells?

Conductivity, passing electrical potentials along the cell.

How do cells of the intestine and kidney perform their function?

Through metabolic absorption of nutrients and substances from their surroundings.

What is respiration in cellular contexts?

The process by which cells absorb oxygen to transform nutrients into energy (ATP).

Why is communication vital for cells?

It allows cells to survive and maintain a dynamic steady state within their society.

What components make up a typical eukaryotic cell?

An outer plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and organelles.

What recent advancements aid in understanding cellular structure and function?

Advances in microscopy and computer software allowing nanoscale resolution.