Biology 1310 Lecture 8: Mitochondria, Chloroplasts, and Cytoskeleton

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from Lecture 8 on Mitochondria, Chloroplasts, and Cytoskeletal components.

Mitochondria

Organelles found in virtually all eukaryotic cells that produce energy through cellular respiration.

Chloroplasts

Organelles that conduct photosynthesis in plant cells using sunlight to produce ATP.

Endosymbiosis

The theory that explains the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts as once free-living prokaryotes that became incorporated into eukaryotic cells.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers in the cell that provides structural support, facilitates cell movement, and aids in the transport of molecules.

Microtubules

Tubulin-based structures that provide rigidity and shape to the cell, and are involved in cell division and intracellular transport.

Microfilaments

Thinner protein filaments composed of actin, involved in cell movement and shape maintenance.

Intermediate filaments

Proteins that provide mechanical support and maintain the shape of the cell.

Cristae

The folds of the inner membrane of mitochondria that increase surface area for energy production.

Thylakoids

Membrane-bound structures within chloroplasts where the light reactions of photosynthesis take place.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network composed of proteins and carbohydrates that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Binary fission

The process by which mitochondria divide independently of the cell's division cycle.

Krebs Cycle

A series of enzymatic reactions in the mitochondrial matrix that produces energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.

ATP

A high-energy molecule produced by mitochondria and chloroplasts that serves as the primary energy currency of the cell.

Peroxisomes

Organelles that break down fatty acids and produce hydrogen peroxide, which is subsequently converted to water and oxygen.

Proteoglycan

A complex of proteins and carbohydrates in the ECM that contribute to tissue hydration and structural integrity.