Unit 3: Cells

Cytology

The study of cells.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell that directs cell activities and contains genetic information.

Cytoplasm

The area between the nucleus and the cell membrane where many metabolic reactions occur.

Cell Membrane

Also called the phospholipid bilayer, it regulates what enters and leaves the cell and is selectively permeable.

Organelles

Little organs within the cell that perform specific functions.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

A transport system within the cell, consisting of canals connecting the membrane to the nucleus and organelles.

Golgi Apparatus

Packages and delivers proteins produced by ribosomes.

Mitochondria

Organelles that convert chemical energy from food into usable energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.

Lysosomes

Organelles containing enzymes to break down substances in the cell.

Centrosome (Centrioles)

Structures that help form the spindle during cell division.

Cytoskeleton

The network of microfilaments and microtubules that provides shape and support to the cell.

Nucleolus

A structure within the nucleus responsible for the production of ribosomes.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins.

Villi

Projections in the digestive system that aid in nutrient absorption.

Diffusion

The passive movement of molecules from areas of high concentration to areas of low concentration.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across the cell membrane without the need for energy.

Interphase

The growth phase of the cell cycle during which the cell prepares for division.

Mitosis

The process of nuclear division where one cell divides to form two identical cells.

Cytokinesis

The final stage of cell division where the cell splits into two daughter cells.

Prophase

The first stage of mitosis where chromosomes become visible and the nuclear membrane disappears.

Metaphase

The stage of mitosis where chromosomes line up along the equator of the cell.

Anaphase

The stage of mitosis when sister chromatids separate and move to opposite poles.

Telophase

The final stage of mitosis where chromosomes decondense and the nuclear membrane reforms.

Cancer

A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell division.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that can be triggered by DNA damage.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

A virus that can cause warts and increase the risk of certain cancers.

HeLa Cells

Immortal cell line derived from Henrietta Lacks' cervical cancer cells used in medical research.

Senescence

The property of cells that do not die after a set number of divisions.

Lysosomal Storage Disorder

A condition resulting from enzyme deficiencies in lysosomes, such as Tay Sachs.

Mitochondrial Disorder

A condition where mitochondria cannot produce enough ATP, leading to energy deficits in cells.

Glucose

A simple sugar that is a primary energy source for cells.

Oxygen

A gas necessary for cellular respiration to produce ATP.

Cell Differentiation

The process by which a cell changes to become specialized for its job.

Chromatin

The material of which the chromosomes of organisms are composed; consists of DNA and proteins.

Cell Cycle

The series of events that take place in a cell leading to its division and duplication.

Checkpoint

Regulatory points in the cell cycle that ensure proper division and DNA integrity.

Tissues

Groups of cells that work together to perform a specific function.