Cell Biology and Membrane Transport

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts in cell biology and membrane transport based on the provided lecture notes.

Ribosomes

Granular organelles composed of proteins and rRNA; involved in the translation of mRNA to synthesize proteins.

Centrioles

Two cylindrical bundles of protein filaments that are perpendicular to each other, directing mitotic spindle development during cell division.

Cytoskeleton

Composed of protein filaments including microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules; it provides structural support and facilitates cell movement and contraction.

Fluid Mosaic Model

A model that describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a mosaic of various components including lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Glycocalyx

A carbohydrate-rich zone on the cell surface that functions in cell recognition.

Gene

The functional length of DNA that provides the genetic information necessary to build a protein.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

Transcription

The process of synthesizing mRNA from a DNA template in the nucleus.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Post-Transcriptional Modification

The process that includes the addition of a 5' cap, a poly A tail, splicing, and exportation of mRNA to the cytoplasm.

Translation

The process of synthesizing polypeptides using mRNA codons as templates for amino acid assembly.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides on a tRNA molecule that is complementary to a specific codon on mRNA.

Post-Translational Modifications

Modifications to a polypeptide after translation, including folding, cleavage, chemical modifications, and transport.

Passive Transport

Movement of molecules across the plasma membrane without the need for energy, typically down a concentration gradient.

Active Transport

Movement of molecules against a concentration gradient that requires energy.

Osmolarity

The total concentration of solute particles in a solution.

Crenation

The process of cell shrinkage due to loss of water in a hypertonic solution.

Exocytosis

A type of membrane transport that involves the expulsion of materials from the cell.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis known as 'cell eating', where the cell engulfs large particles.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis known as 'cell drinking', where the cell takes in fluid and small molecules.