Cells: The Living Units

A series of flashcards covering key concepts related to cells, their structure, functions, and processes.

Cell

The structural units of all living things.

Extracellular Matrix

A complex network of proteins and carbohydrates that provides structural and biochemical support to the surrounding cells.

Plasma Membrane

A double layer of phospholipids with embedded proteins, regulating what enters and exits the cell.

Tight Junctions

Impermeable junctions that prevent molecules from passing between cells.

Desmosomes

Anchoring junctions that help keep adjacent cells from being pulled apart.

Gap Junctions

Communicating junctions that allow ions and small molecules to pass directly from one cell to another.

Passive Membrane Transport

The movement of substances across the membrane without the use of energy.

Osmosis

The movement of water through a selectively permeable membrane.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A primary active transport mechanism that moves sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell.

Membrane Potential

The voltage difference across a cell membrane.

Cell Cycle

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

Nucleus

The control center of the cell, containing DNA.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins.

Mitochondria

Organelles that produce ATP through cellular respiration.

Lysosome

An organelle that contains digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Peroxisome

An organelle containing enzymes that detoxify harmful substances.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that extend from the surface of the cells and are used for movement.

Microvilli

Small, finger-like projections that increase surface area for absorption.

Glycocalyx

A sugar coating on the plasma membrane that helps the cell interact with its environment.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains coded instructions for synthesizing proteins.

Messenger RNA (mRNA)

The type of RNA that carries instructions from DNA for building proteins.

Apoptosis

A process of programmed cell death that eliminates unneeded cells.