Animal Cell Structure and Function

This set of flashcards covers key terms related to animal cell structures and functions, epithelial tissue types, and their characteristics.

Plasma membrane

The selectively permeable outer barrier of the cell, controlling entry and exit of substances.

Nucleus

The cell's control center that contains its DNA.

Cytoplasm

Everything inside the cell except for the nucleus, including cytosol and organelles.

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Network of flattened sacs that synthesize glycoproteins and phospholipids.

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Network of tubules that synthesize lipids, including fatty acids and steroids.

Golgi apparatus

Modifies, sorts, packages, and transports proteins received from rough ER.

Mitochondrion

The powerhouse of the cell, generating energy or ATP.

Lysosome

Contains digestive enzymes that break down a variety of molecules.

Centrioles

Organizing center for growth of mitotic spindles and microtubules.

Epithelial tissue

Covers surfaces of the body, lines hollow organs, and forms glandular tissues.

Connective tissue

Supports and protects other tissues.

Muscle tissue

Produces movement for various purposes.

Nervous tissue

Acts to communicate with and control other parts of the body.

Simple squamous epithelium

Single layer of flat cells, allowing for filtration and rapid exchange of materials.

Simple cuboidal epithelium

Single layer of cube-shaped cells, primarily involved in secretion.

Simple columnar epithelium

Single layer of column-like cells that may be ciliated and are involved in secretion and absorption.

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Appears stratified but all cells are attached to the basement membrane, involved in secretion.

Stratified squamous epithelium

Multiple layers of cells providing protection, found in skin and lining of wet surfaces.

Transitional epithelium

Varied cell appearance that stretches to accommodate changes in volume, found in the urinary system.