Nucleus
Function - Control Center of the cell, housing genetic material (DNA) and coordinating activities
Nuclear Pores
Small openings in the nuclear envelope that regulate the transport of molecules in and out of the nucleus
Chromatin
A complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus that condenses to form chromosomes during cell division
Nucleolus
A dense region within the nucleus where ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is synthesized and ribosome assembly begins.
Ribosomes
Function - Protein synthesis, composed of rRNA and protein
Free Ribosomes
Ribosomes that float freely in the cytosol, synthesizing proteins that function within the cytoplasm.
Bound Ribosomes
Ribosomes attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, synthesizing proteins destined for secretion or for use in membranes.
Endomembrane System
A network of membranes that includes the nuclear envelope, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and vesicles, vacuoles, and plasma membrane. Involved in the synthesis, modification, and transport of proteins and lipids.
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
A type of endoplasmic reticulum that is studded with ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis and processing. Sends transport vesicles to Golgi
Smooth Endoplasmic Retiticulum
A type of endoplasmic reticulum that lacks ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and calcium ion storage.
Golgi Apparatus
A membrane-bound organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles. Produces Lysosomes. Cis face - Receives vesicles, Trans face - Ships vesicles
Lysosomes
Intracellular digestion; recycle cell’s materials; programmed cell death (apoptosis)
Vacuoles
Membrane-bound sacs that store nutrients, waste products, and help maintain turgor pressure in plant cells. Plants - large central, Animal - multiple small
Mitochondria
Organelles that produce ATP through cellular respiration, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell. They have a double membrane and contain their own DNA.
Cristae
Folded inner membrane of mitochondria that increases surface area for ATP production.
Matrix
The fluid-filled space within the mitochondria where the Krebs cycle occurs, containing enzymes and mitochondrial DNA.
ATP
Adenosine triphosphate, the primary energy carrier in all living organisms, used in various cellular processes.
Chloroplasts
Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy. Double membrane enclosed structure containing thylakoids (disks in stacks) and stroma (fluid). Chloroplasts also contain pigments like chlorophyll, which absorb light energy for photosynthesis.
Endosymbiont theory
The theory that explains the origin of eukaryotic cells, suggesting that they evolved from symbiotic relationships between different species of prokaryotes. Mitochondria and chloroplasts are believed to have originated this way, having their own DNA and double membranes.
Peroxisomes
and other reactive oxygen species, playing a role in lipid metabolism and the detoxification of harmful substances. Breaks down fatty acid; detox alcohol. Production of hydrogren peroxide
Cytoskeleton
A network of protein filaments and tubules that provide structural support, shape, and organization to the cell. It plays a crucial role in cell movement, division, and intracellular transport.
Microtubuls
Chromosome movement in cell division
Microfilaments
Cell division, change in cell shape, cell motility
Intermediate filaments
Anchorage of nucleus and some other organelles
Centrosomes
Region from which microtubules grow, in Animal cells
Cilia
Short and numerous tails; locomotion or move fluids
Flagella
Long and few tails; propel through water
Cell Wall
Protect plants, maintain shape, composed of cellulose
Plamodersmata
Channels between cells to allow passage of molecules from cell to cell
Extracellular Matrix
Outside plasma membrane of animal cells. Composed of glycoproteins, strengthens tissues and transmit external signals to cell
Tight Junctions
Two cells are fused to form watertight seal.
Desmosomes
Rivets that fasten adjacent cells into strong sheetsGap
Gap Junctions
Channels through which ions, sugar, small molecules can pass