Animal Cell Parts and Functions

Cytoskeleton

Cytoskeleton

network that maintains the cell’s shape, secures organelles in specific position, allows cytoplasm and vesicles to move within the cell; comprised of microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments

Mitochondria

makes ATP, the cell’s main energy-carry molecule; contains its own DNA; inner folds are called cristae

Rough ER

studded with ribosomes; engages in protein modification and phospholipid synthesis

Nucleus

houses the cell’s DNA; directs ribosome and protein synthesis

Nuclear Pores

regulates the transportation of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm

Plasma membrane

separates the cell’s internal content from its surrounding environment

Nucleolus

responsible for assembling ribosome subunits

Nuclear envelope

the nucleus’ outermost portion; provides structural framework of nucleus

Chromatin

complex of DNA; packages long DNA molecules into more compact, denser structures

Ribosomes

carries out protein synthesis

Smooth ER

no ribosomes; synthesizes carbohydrates, lipids. and steroid hormones; detoxifies certain chemicals; stores calcium ions

Cilia

moves the entire cell or substances along the cell’s outer surface; short hair-like structures

Golgi Apparatus

sorts, tags, and packages lipids and proteins for distribution

Microtubule

cytoskeleton’s widest element; helps the cell resist compression; provides highway for vesicles to move through the cell; comprises cilia

Microfilament

cytoskeleton’s narrowest element; provides rigidity and shape to the cell; enables cellular movement

Intermediate filaements

apart of the cytoskeleton; bears tension; supports cell to cell junctions; anchors cells to extracellular structures

Centrioles

organize microtubules; helps with cell division; found only in plant cells

Peroxisome

contains hydrogen peroxide, oxidizes fatty acids and amino acids; detoxifies many poisons

Lysosome

breaks down cellular waste

Cytoplasm

enitre region between the plasma membrane and the nuclear envelope; cytosol is gel-like material

Vacuole

functions in cellular storage and transport

Vesicle

transports materials; recycles wast materials

Extracellular matrix

provides protection; anchoring for the cells in the tissue; not a protective layer; not rigid