Human biology: structure and function of animal cells

What is the structure and function of the Cell Membrane?

• Structure: Semi-fluid phospholipid bilayer where proteins are embedded.

• Function: Acts as a flexible boundary between the cell and the extracellular environment; regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

What is the structure and function of the Cytoplasm

• Structure: A solution containing dissolved substances and cell organelles; includes the gel-like fluid.

• Function: Maintains cell structure; site where vital metabolic reactions occur.

What is the structure and function of the Nucleus? ::

• Structure: Contains chromatin within a nuclear membrane; features nuclear pores that allow large molecules to enter and exit.

• Function: Contains genetic material; responsible for regulating all activities of the cell.

What is the structure and function of Mitochondria?

• Structure: Special organelle with a double membrane.

• Function: The site of cellular respiration; known as the "powerhouse" of the cell.

What is the structure and function of a Ribosome?

• Structure: Small, spherical organelles made of ribosomal RNA. (

• Function: Synthesis of polypeptides (Amino acids ——→ proteins).

What is the structure and function of the Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum?

• Structure: A system of membranous tubules studded with ribosomes.

• Function: Synthesis, folding, and modification of proteins; transports proteins; membrane production.

What is the structure and function of the Golgi Body?

• Structure: A stack of flattened membrane sacs called cisternae.

• Function: Modification, sorting, packaging, and storage of proteins and lipids; transport of these materials.

What is the structure and function of the Cytoskeleton?

• Structure: A network of protein fibers creating a framework.

• Function: Maintains cell shape; assists in cell movement.

What is the structure and function of Centrioles?

• Structure: A pair of cylinders made of 9 sets of triplet microtubules arranged in a ring.

• Function: Involved in organizing microtubule assembly

What is the structure and function of a Lysosome? ::

• Structure: Small spheres; lipid membrane-bound sacs containing enzymes.

• Function: Breaks down materials taken into the cell;

• breaks down worn-out organelles; acts as the cell's "rubbish tip."

What is the structure and function of Vacuoles & Vesicles?

• Structure: Membrane-bound sacs (vacuoles are larger).

• Function: Transport materials into, out of, or within the cell