Cell Biology Review

These flashcards cover key concepts in the cell biology lecture, including cell theory, types of cells, and cell structures and functions.

What did Needham attempt to prove?

That spontaneous generation occurs in microorganisms.

What was Spallanzani's contribution to the study of spontaneous generation?

He proved that spontaneous generation does not occur by boiling broth and sealing the containers.

Who disproved spontaneous generation using a swan neck flask?

Pasteur.

What concept did Virchow introduce in relation to the theory of spontaneous generation?

Biogenesis, which states that all living cells come from preexisting living cells.

What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells do.

What are the three main functions of smooth ER?

Lipid synthesis, storage of calcium ions, and detoxification.

What is the function of ribosomes?

Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis.

What role does the Golgi apparatus play in a cell?

It modifies, packages, and transports products received from the endoplasmic reticulum.

What is cellular respiration?

The process carried out by mitochondria that produces ATP.

What type of cytoskeleton is involved in cellular movement such as 'pinching' and contracting?

Actin.

What type of cell transport involves movement against a gradient?

Active transport.

What is a hypotonic solution?

A solution that contains a lower concentration of solute than the solution inside the cell.

What is the process of endocytosis?

A form of bulk transport where molecules are engulfed into a vesicle by the cell membrane.

What are chloroplasts responsible for?

Photosynthesis, the process by which plants make their own food.

What is the significance of the plasma membrane?

It controls what enters and leaves the cell.

What is Tay Sachs?

A genetic disorder associated with lysosomes that do not function correctly.

What is the role of peroxisomes?

They contain enzymes that remove hydrogen atoms from various substances, such as alcohol.

What is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

It synthesizes lipids and detoxifies certain chemicals.

What is the structure called that surrounds the nucleus?

Nuclear envelope.

What is the primary role of channel proteins in the cell membrane?

To provide a 'tunnel' like passage for substances to cross the membrane.