UNIT 3.1 Cell Structure, Organelles, and Cell Junctions

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on cell structure, organelles, and cell junctions.

What are Eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes are single-celled or multicellular organisms with membrane-bound nuclei; examples include animals, plants, and fungi.

What is the primary difference between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound structures like the nucleus, while Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles.

What are the three basic parts of a human cell?

The three parts are the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.

What is the function of the cell membrane?

The cell membrane encloses the cell, controls the entry and exit of substances, facilitates communication, and allows cell recognition.

What are the two types of Endoplasmic Reticulum and their functions?

Rough ER synthesizes proteins for secretion; Smooth ER is involved in lipid metabolism and hormone synthesis.

What role do mitochondria play in the cell?

Mitochondria produce most of the cell's energy molecules.

What is the main function of lysosomes?

Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes for intracellular digestion.

What are the three types of cell junctions?

The three types are tight junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions.

How do tight junctions function in tissues?

Tight junctions form impermeable seals that prevent substances from passing between cells.

What is the role of desmosomes?

Desmosomes are anchoring junctions that provide mechanical strength to tissues.

What is the purpose of gap junctions in cells?

Gap junctions allow ions and small molecules to pass between cells for communication.

What is the cytoplasm?

The cytoplasm is the cellular material between the plasma membrane and nucleus, containing cytosol, inclusions, and organelles.

What is the structure of the cell membrane?

The cell membrane consists of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins and surface carbohydrates.

What distinguishes ribosomes in the cell?

Ribosomes are nonmembranous organelles that are the site of protein synthesis.