Cellular organelles

Plasma Membrane / Cell Membrane

Semi-permeable barrier that controls the movement of substances into and out of the cell. Has aquaporines that facilitate water transport and is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

Nucleus

Stores genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities through gene expression. Its in animal cells

Nucleoid

Region in prokaryotic cells where the genetic material (DNA) is located.

Nuclear Membrane

Double membrane that surrounds the nucleus, regulating the passage of molecules in and out.

Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the cell, generates ATP through cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Synthesize proteins by translating mRNA into polypeptide chains.

Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for delivery within the cell.

Lysosomes

Break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Peroxisomes

Break down fatty acids and detoxify harmful substances.

Mesosomes

Involved in cell division and maintaining the shape of the cell in prokaryotes.

Chloroplasts

Perform photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

Cell Wall

Provides structural support and protection.

Vacuole

Stores water, nutrients, and waste products; maintains turgor pressure in plant cells.

Cytoskeleton

Provides structural support, facilitates cell movement, and helps with intracellular transport.

Capsid

Protective protein coat surrounding viral genetic material.

Envelope

A lipid bilayer surrounding some viruses, derived from the host cell membrane.

DNA

Stores genetic information and directs cellular functions.

mRNA

Carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

tRNA

Brings amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.

rRNA

Structural and catalytic component of ribosomes.

ssRNA / dsRNA

Single-stranded RNA and double-stranded RNA used in viral replication and gene expression.

Centrioles

Help organize microtubules during cell division.

Plasmodesmata

Channels between plant cells allowing for communication and transport.

Flagella

Movement of the cell.

Pili

Attachment and DNA transfer in prokaryotes.

Inclusions

Storage of nutrients and waste products.

Types of Cells

Viruses lack membrane-bound organelles; Prokaryotic cells have no membrane-bound organelles; Eukaryotic plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts; Eukaryotic animal cells lack a cell wall but have various organelles.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough)

Synthesize proteins; has ribosomes attached to its surface, which translates mRNA into polypeptide chains.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth)

Synthesizes lipids; detoxifies and stores calcium.