cell biology

Nucleus

Acts as the control center of the cell and houses the genetic material (DNA).

Nucleolus

A dense structure inside the nucleus responsible for producing and assembling ribosomes.

Nuclear Membrane (Envelope)

A double membrane with pores that controls the passage of molecules in and out of the nucleus.

Cytoplasm

A gel-like fluid (cytosol) filling the cell that suspends organelles and allows chemical reactions and transport to occur.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments (microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments) that gives the cell its shape, strength, and ability to move

Mitochondria

The "powerhouses" of the cell that produce cellular energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Small particles (free-floating or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum) that synthesize proteins.

• Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

A membrane network without ribosomes that synthesizes lipids and detoxifies chemicals.

• Golgi Apparatus (Golgi Body)

A stack of flattened sacs that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for delivery inside or outside the cell.

• Lysosomes

Acidic vesicles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste, old cell parts, and foreign invaders (common in animal cells).

• Vacuoles

Membrane-bound sacs used for storing water, nutrients, or waste. Plant cells typically have one large central vacuole.

• Peroxisomes

Small sacs containing enzymes that break down fatty acids and detoxify reactive oxygen species.

• Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane)

A semipermeable phospholipid bilayer that acts as a gatekeeper, controlling what enters and exits the cell.

• Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer made of cellulose that provides structure, support, and protection in plant cells (absent in animal cells).

• Chloroplasts

Green organelles in plant cells that use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide through photosythesis

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

A membrane network studded with ribosomes that folds and transports newly made proteins.