Cell Biology Concepts

Flashcards covering key concepts in cell biology, including protein structures, organelles and their functions, and cellular processes.

Primary Structure

The sequence of amino acids in a protein, determined by the gene sequence.

Secondary Structure

Local folding patterns in proteins (alpha-helices and beta-sheets) due to hydrogen bonding.

Tertiary Structure

The overall 3D shape of a single polypeptide chain, determined by interactions between amino acid side chains.

Quaternary Structure

The arrangement of multiple polypeptide chains (subunits) in a protein complex.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell; site of cellular respiration (ATP production).

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A network of membranes involved in protein synthesis (rough ER) and lipid synthesis/detoxification (smooth ER).

Golgi Apparatus

Processes, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids from the ER.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain enzymes to break down cellular waste and debris.

Vacuoles

Storage sacs for water, nutrients, and waste products.

Microfilaments (Actin Filaments)

Provide cell shape, involved in cell movement, and cell division.

Intermediate Filaments

Provide structural support, anchor organelles, and resist mechanical stress.

Microtubules

Form tracks for organelle movement and are involved in cell division and forming cilia and flagella.

Glycolysis

The process of breaking down glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP and NADH.

Pyruvate Oxidation

The conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA, releasing CO2 and producing NADH.

Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle)

The cycle in which acetyl-CoA is oxidized, producing ATP, NADH, FADH2, and CO2.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

A series of complexes that transfer electrons from NADH and FADH2, generating ATP through chemiosmosis.

Lactic Acid Fermentation

A process allowing cells to produce ATP in the absence of oxygen by converting pyruvate to lactate.

Photosynthesis

The process of using light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Cellular Respiration

The process of breaking down glucose to produce ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.

Calvin Cycle

A cycle that converts carbon dioxide into glucose using ATP and NADPH produced in light-dependent reactions.

Stroma

The fluid-filled space in chloroplasts where the Calvin cycle occurs.