Endomembrane System and Cell Structure Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the structure and function of the endomembrane system in eukaryotic cells, including the roles of different organelles and mechanisms involved in cellular processes.

What is the function of the endomembrane system in eukaryotic cells?

It organizes the cell's internal structure and functions through a vast network of membranes.

How much larger are eukaryotic cells compared to prokaryotic cells in size?

Eukaryotic cells are 10 times larger.

What is the area difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells are 1000 times larger in area.

Name two types of endoplasmic reticulum.

Smooth ER and Rough ER.

What is the primary function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

Lipid synthesis, detoxification, and carbohydrate metabolism.

What does the rough endoplasmic reticulum primarily do?

It synthesizes proteins that are targeted for specific locations.

What structure is responsible for protein modification and packaging?

Golgi Apparatus.

What is the primary role of lysosomes?

They break down waste materials and cellular debris.

What are microbodies responsible for?

They are involved in lipid metabolism and breaking down molecules.

What key role do ribosomes play in the cell?

They are the site of protein synthesis.

What is glycosylation?

The addition of oligosaccharides to proteins or lipids.

What type of vacuole is large and central in plant cells?

Central vacuole.

What is the function of contractile vacuoles?

They regulate water content in freshwater protists without a cell wall.

What is the main function of the peroxisome?

It breaks down fatty acids and detoxifies harmful substances.

What do food vacuoles do in animal cells?

They store and digest food through fusion with lysosomes.

What is the function of the nucleus?

It stores DNA and is the site of RNA synthesis.

What is a targeted sequence in protein synthesis?

It directs proteins to their specific locations using vesicles.

How do lipids contribute to the endomembrane system?

They are synthesized and modified within the smooth ER and transported via vesicles.

What process occurs in the cytoplasm regarding RNA and ribosomes?

Ribosomes recognize RNA signals and attach to synthesize proteins.

What is the function of vacuoles in plants?

They store waste, minerals, and secondary metabolites.

How are proteins marked for secretion?

They have a signal sequence that directs their transport.

What is the typical pH level of peroxisomes?

pH 5.0.

What is the role of vesicles in the endomembrane system?

They transport materials between different organelles.

What type of vesicles fuse with lysosomes to aid in digestion?

Pinocytic vesicles.

What role does the endomembrane system play in detoxification?

It facilitates the breakdown and removal of toxins from cells.

What important function does the central vacuole serve in plant cells?

Storage of nutrients and maintenance of turgor pressure.