Cell Structure & Function - Introduction

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to cell structure and function as discussed in the lecture.

Forgetting Curve

Describes how quickly new information is forgotten after learning it.

Spaced Repetition

A study technique that involves reviewing material at increasing intervals.

Plasma Membrane

A selectively permeable barrier that controls the passage of substances in and out of the cell.

Integral Proteins

Membrane proteins that are embedded in the membrane and span its entirety.

Peripheral Membrane Proteins

Proteins associated with the membrane but not embedded within it.

Cytosol

The fluid portion of the cytoplasm, consisting of water and dissolved substances.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An extensive network of tubes that synthesizes proteins and lipids.

Rough ER

Endoplasmic reticulum with attached ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis.

Smooth ER

Endoplasmic reticulum without ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for transport.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that maintain cell shape, support cellular structures, and facilitate movement.

Microfilaments

Thin fibers composed of actin that provide support and shape to the cell.

Intermediate Filaments

Filaments that provide structural support and stability to the cell.

Microtubules

Tubular structures that guide organelle movement and are involved in cell division.

Mitochondria

Organelles that generate ATP through cellular respiration.

Nucleus

The organelle containing DNA, which regulates gene expression and the replication of DNA.

Nucleosome

A structural unit of DNA, consisting of a segment of DNA wrapped around histone proteins.

Chromatin

The complex of DNA and proteins that forms chromosomes within the nucleus.

Cell Theory

The principle that all living organisms are composed of cells, the basic unit of structure, and that cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Central Dogma

The process by which DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into proteins.

Glycoproteins

Proteins that have carbohydrates attached and are involved in cell recognition.