Introduction to Cytology

A collection of flashcards covering vocabulary and key concepts from the lecture on cytology, emphasizing the structure and function of cells.

Cytology

The study of cells, including their structure and function.

Cell Theory

A scientific theory that states all organisms are composed of cells, and that all cells arise from preexisting cells.

Plasma Membrane

A selectively permeable membrane that surrounds the cell, composed of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

Phospholipids

Molecules that form the bilayer of the plasma membrane, characterized by having hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Glycolipids

Lipids with carbohydrate chains that contribute to the glycocalyx, a protective layer on cell surfaces.

Membrane Proteins

Proteins embedded in the plasma membrane that serve various functions, including transportation and signaling.

Receptor

A protein on the cell surface that binds to specific chemical messengers like hormones and neurotransmitters.

Diffusion

The net movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration, resulting from their random motion.

Osmosis

The flow of water across a selectively permeable membrane, from an area of higher concentration of water to lower concentration.

Tonicity

The ability of a solution to affect the fluid volume and pressure in a cell.

Endocytosis

The process by which cells internalize substances from their external environment through vesicles.

Exocytosis

The process by which substances are secreted from the cell via vesicles that fuse with the plasma membrane.

Lysosome

An organelle containing enzymes for intracellular digestion of various macromolecules.

Mitochondria

Membrane-bound organelles that generate ATP through cellular respiration, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments and tubules that help maintain the shape of the cell and facilitate movement.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

A type of endoplasmic reticulum that is studded with ribosomes and involved in protein synthesis.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

A type of endoplasmic reticulum that lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis and drug detoxification.

Golgi Complex

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Cilia

Hair-like structures on the cell surface that help in movement and sensory functions.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that enable movement in certain cells, such as sperm.

Channel Proteins

Transmembrane proteins that facilitate the transport of ions and molecules across the cell membrane.