SU 2 - Cells, Tissues, and Integumentary System

Plasma membrane

The outer boundary of a cell that regulates exchange with the environment and provides physical isolation.

Cytoplasm

The material between the plasma membrane and the nuclear membrane that contains organelles and inclusions.

Cytosol

The fluid portion of the cytoplasm that suspends organelles and inclusions.

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)

A network of membranous channels involved in the synthesis, storage, and transport of materials.

Golgi apparatus

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Lysosomes

Intracellular vesicles containing digestive enzymes for the breakdown of waste materials.

Mitochondria

Organelles responsible for producing ATP, the main energy carrier in cells.

Cell differentiation

The process through which cells become specialized in structure and function.

Phospholipid bilayer

The fundamental structure of the plasma membrane that forms a physical barrier between the cell's internal and external environments.

Gene

A segment of DNA that serves as a hereditary unit and codes for a specific protein.

Carcinoma

A type of cancer that arises in epithelial tissue.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer cells from one part of the body to another, establishing secondary tumors.

Apocrine sweat glands

Glands located in specific areas that secrete a cloudy, potentially odorous fluid into hair follicles.

Eccrine sweat glands

Glands that secrete sweat directly onto the surface of the skin for thermoregulation.

Melanocytes

Specialized cells in the epidermis responsible for the production of melanin.

Keratinocytes

The most abundant cells in the epidermis that produce keratin.

Sebaceous glands

Glands that secrete sebum to lubricate hair and skin.

Stratum corneum

The outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead, keratinized cells.

Adipose tissue

A type of connective tissue that stores energy in the form of triglycerides.

Fibroblasts

The primary cells found in connective tissue proper that produce fibers and ground substance.

Healing process

The series of steps, including inflammation and regeneration, that occurs after tissue injury.