Eukaryotic Cell Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to eukaryotic cell structure and function, based on lecture notes.

Flagella

A structure that enables motility in some eukaryotic cells, made of elongated filaments of protein.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures used for movement, resembling a 'buzz cut' version of flagella.

Eukaryotic Cell Wall

A structural feature found in fungi, made of chitin, contrasting with the absence of a cell wall in animals and protozoans.

Fluid Mosaic Model

A description of the eukaryotic cell membrane structure, indicating fluidity of phospholipids and a mosaic of proteins.

Endocytosis

A process by which cells engulf materials from the external environment by wrapping their membranes around them.

Exocytosis

The process by which a cell transports materials out of the cell by vesicles fusing with the membrane.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis where cells engulf large particles such as bacteria.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis where cells ingest small dissolved molecules or liquids.

Receptor Meditated Endocytosis

A cellular process of taking in specific molecules based on a receptor-ligand interaction.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouses of the cell, responsible for generating ATP, and possessing their own DNA.

Nucleus

The largest organelle in eukaryotic cells, containing the cell's genetic material.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery.

Lysosome

A membrane-bound organelle containing digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Chloroplasts

Organelle in plants and algae responsible for photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that provides structural support, organization, and movement to the cell.

Ribosome

A non-membranous organelle responsible for protein synthesis, found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The theory suggesting that mitochondria and chloroplasts originated from free-living prokaryotes engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.