Cell Structure and Function Overview

Cell Size

Most cells range from 1-100 micrometers.

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio

Determines cell size and efficiency.

Magnification

Enlargement of an image size.

Resolution

Clarity of an image.

Pathology

Study of cells and their diseases.

Plasma Membrane

Encloses the cell with a phospholipid bilayer.

Plasma Membrane Function

Regulates entry/exit and cell communication.

Prokaryotes

Includes bacteria and archaea, unicellular organisms.

Eukaryotes

Includes animals, plants, fungi, and protists.

Capsule

Optional slimy layer outside prokaryotic cells.

Flagellum

Optional structure aiding cell movement.

Fimbriae and Pili

Structures for adhesion and genetic exchange.

Ribosomes

Composed of rRNA and proteins; synthesizes proteins.

Nucleus

Houses DNA; contains nucleolus for ribosome assembly.

Nuclear Envelope

Double membrane surrounding the nucleus.

Nuclear Lamina

Protein structure maintaining nucleus shape.

Chromatin

DNA and proteins; condenses to form chromosomes.

Vesicles

Membrane-enclosed droplets shuttling substances.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

Has ribosomes; synthesizes and packages proteins.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

Modifies toxins; synthesizes lipids and steroids.

Golgi Apparatus

Packages and sorts vesicle contents for transport.

Lysosomes

Recycling center with digestive enzymes.

Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the cell; site of ATP production.

Chloroplast

Site of photosynthesis in plants and protists.

Cytoskeleton

Maintains cell shape and organizes organelles.

Microfilaments

Protein actin; involved in cell movement.

Intermediate Filaments

Anchor cell structures; resist tension.

Microtubules

Hollow cylinders; serve as molecular highways.