2004 CH 4 - Eukaryotic Cells and Microorganisms

Glycocalyces

Anchor cells, protect against dehydration, enable communication.

Flagella

Appendages for movement, composed of microtubules.

Cilia

Short hair-like structures aiding in cell movement.

Cell Wall

Rigid structure providing support, absent in protozoa.

Chitin

Polysaccharide in fungal cell walls for structure.

Cell Membrane

Phospholipid bilayer, selectively permeable, maintains fluidity.

Nucleus

Contains most cell genes, enclosed by nuclear envelope.

Nucleolus

RNA-rich area within the nucleus, involved in ribosome production.

Chromatin

DNA and protein complex, condenses to form chromosomes.

Ribosomes

Protein synthesis machinery, found free or bound.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Network of membranes, includes rough and smooth types.

Golgi Apparatus

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins from the ER.

Lysosome

Contains enzymes for digesting cellular debris and organelles.

Peroxisome

Converts toxic oxygen species into harmless substances.

Vacuoles

Storage organelles for food, water, or waste.

Mitochondria

Powerhouse of the cell, generates ATP through respiration.

Cristae

Folds of the inner mitochondrial membrane, increase surface area.

Cytoskeleton

Network of fibers providing cell shape and movement.

Actin

Thin filaments aiding in cell movement and structure.

Microtubules

Hollow tubes maintaining cell shape and facilitating transport.

Hyphae

Filamentous structures forming the body of fungi.

Yeast

Single-celled fungi, reproduce asexually by budding.

Saprobes

Organisms obtaining nutrients from dead organic matter.

Opportunistic Infections

Infections by low-virulence organisms in weakened hosts.

Entamoeba histolytica

Pathogenic amoeba causing amoebiasis in humans.

Giardia lamblia

Flagellated protozoan causing gastrointestinal disease.

Schistosomiasis

Disease caused by blood flukes, transmitted via contaminated water.

Trichinella spp.

Nematode found in undercooked pork, causes trichinosis.