Cell Biology, Reproduction, and GMOs (Page 1)

Vocabulary flashcards covering cell structures, reproduction methods, and GMOs from Page 1 notes.

nucleoid

Region in the cytoplasm of prokaryotes where the single circular DNA chromosome is located.

prokaryotic cells

Simple cells lacking a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; typically unicellular.

eukaryotic cells

Cells with a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; larger and more complex.

cell wall

Rigid structure that provides support, maintains shape, and protects against dehydration.

cell membrane

Selective barrier that controls movement of substances in and out of the cell.

cytoplasm

Gel-like interior of the cell where metabolic activities occur and organelles are suspended.

ribosomes

Sites of protein synthesis; translate genetic information into proteins.

capsule

Outer layer in some bacteria that aids in attachment and provides protection.

flagella

Long, whip-like structures aiding in locomotion.

pili

Hair-like structures enabling attachment and genetic exchange in bacteria.

nucleus

Membrane-bound organelle housing the cell's DNA organized into chromosomes.

nuclear envelope

Double membrane surrounding the nucleus that protects it.

nucleolus

Region inside the nucleus where ribosome subunits are assembled.

mitochondria

Powerhouses of the cell; generate ATP via cellular respiration.

endoplasmic reticulum

Network of membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis and transport.

rough endoplasmic reticulum

ER studded with ribosomes; synthesizes and modifies proteins.

smooth endoplasmic reticulum

ER lacking ribosomes; synthesizes lipids and detoxifies substances.

Golgi apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery.

lysosomes

Organelles containing enzymes that digest waste and debris.

cytoskeleton

Network of protein filaments providing structure, shape, and movement.

chloroplasts

Sites of photosynthesis in plants and algae.

central vacuole

Large plant cell vacuole storing water and maintaining turgor pressure.

photosynthesis

Process of converting light energy into chemical energy (glucose).

external fertilization

Fertilization occurring outside the female body; common in aquatic environments.

spawning

Simultaneous release of eggs and sperm into water.

internal fertilization

Fertilization of the egg occurs inside the female's body.

copulation

Mechanism by which sperm is delivered to the female for internal fertilization.

oviparity

Female lays fertilized eggs that develop outside the body.

ovoviviparity

Eggs are retained inside the female; embryos hatch inside before birth.

viviparity

Young develop inside the female and are nourished via a placenta; live birth.

asexual reproduction

Reproduction involving a single parent, producing genetically identical offspring.

binary fission

Asexual division in prokaryotes; one cell divides into two identical cells.

budding

New organism grows from a bud on the parent and can detach.

fragmentation

Parent splits into fragments, each regenerates into a new individual.

spore formation

Formation of spores that germinate into new organisms.

vegetative propagation

Asexual plant reproduction from vegetative parts (stems, roots, leaves).

runners

Horizontal stems that spread and produce new plantlets.

tubers

Underground storage organs that can sprout new plants.

bulbs

Underground storage structures with stored food that produce new shoots.

cuttings

Piece of stem or leaf planted to grow a new plant.

GMO

Genetically modified organism; organism whose DNA has been altered by genetic engineering.

genetic engineering

Directly changing an organism's DNA to introduce new traits.

bioengineering

Another term for genetic modification and related technology.

beta-carotene

Nutrient added to crops (e.g., Golden Rice) to improve Vitamin A intake.

Golden Rice

GM rice engineered to produce beta-carotene to combat Vitamin A deficiency.

Arctic Apple

GM apple engineered to resist browning and extend shelf life.

higher yields

Increased crop production achieved through GMO traits like pest resistance.

pest resistance

Trait making crops less susceptible to pests, reducing losses.

herbicide tolerance

Trait allowing crops to withstand herbicides while weeds are killed.

no-till farming

Agricultural practice that reduces soil erosion; often associated with GMOs.

insulin

Hormone produced by GM bacteria for medical use; insulin is a GMO product.

superweeds

Weeds that evolve resistance to herbicides, complicating control.

gene flow

Transfer of genes from GMO crops to wild relatives.

regulatory framework

Laws and guidelines governing GMO development, testing, and use.

labeling

Requirement to disclose that a product contains GM ingredients.