Cell Organelles

Cytoplasm

Semifluid solution composed of water and inorganic and organic molecules that holds organelles in place and aids in chemical reactions.

Nucleus

Oval structure near the center of the cell that contains and protects DNA.

Nucleolus

Dark region within the nucleus that creates ribosomal RNA.

Ribosomes

Structures made up of two subunits of protein that produce proteins based on DNA/RNA sequences.

Rough ER

Endoplasmic reticulum with ribosomes attached that produces and folds proteins in the lumen.

Smooth ER

Endoplasmic reticulum connected to the nuclear envelope and rough ER, with no ribosomes, that produces lipids and breaks down molecules.

Golgi Apparatus

Stack of curved saccules that receives vesicles from the ER to modify and ship proteins and lipids.

Lysosomes

Membrane-bound vesicles produced by the Golgi apparatus containing digestive enzymes to destroy non-functioning organelles.

Peroxisomes

Membrane-bound organelles containing enzymes for detoxification.

Vacuoles

Larger membrane sacs that store substances such as water and food in the cell.

Chloroplasts

Membrane-bound organelles found only in plant cells that are the site of photosynthesis.

Mitochondria

Double membrane structures smaller than chloroplasts that are the location of cellular respiration and ATP production.