Cell Structure and Function

These flashcards cover important cell structures and their corresponding functions.

Plasma Membrane

Maintains the boundary of the cell and integrity of cell structure; embedded proteins serve multiple functions.

Nucleus

Houses the DNA, which dictates cellular function and protein synthesis.

Nucleolus

Dark oval structure inside the nucleus responsible for the synthesis of ribosomal RNA.

Cytosol

Gel-like, intracellular fluid where various cellular processes occur.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

Continuous with the nuclear envelope; flattened sacs dotted with ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

Continuous with rough endoplasmic reticulum; a tubular structure without ribosomes involved in lipid synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

Series of flattened sacs near the endoplasmic reticulum responsible for post-translational processing and packaging of proteins.

Mitochondria

Oval-shaped organelles with an outer membrane and inner membrane folds called cristae; responsible for ATP synthesis.

Lysosomes

Granular, saclike structures scattered throughout the cytoplasm that break down cellular and extracellular debris.

Peroxisomes

Similar in appearance to lysosomes, but smaller; involved in the breakdown of toxic substances, including hydrogen peroxide.

Vaults

Small, barrel-shaped organelles with an unknown function, possibly involved in the transport of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.