Cell Biology and Pathophysiology Practice Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on cell organelles, transport mechanisms, cell theory, and cellular-related pathophysiology.

Cell Theory

The scientific principle stating that all living things are made of cells, cells are the basic structural and functional unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Cell Membrane

A selective barrier that surrounds the cell.

Cytoplasm

A jelly-like fluid that fills the cell, holds organelles in place, and serves as the site of many chemical reactions.

Nucleus

The organelle that contains DNA and controls the cell's activities.

Ribosomes

Organelles responsible for protein synthesis, which is essential for cell repair and growth.

Rough ER

An organelle involved in protein processing.

Smooth ER

An organelle responsible for lipid synthesis and detoxification.

Golgi Apparatus

The organelle that modifies and packages proteins and lipids.

Mitochondria

The organelle responsible for $ATP$ (energy) production.

Lysosomes

Organelles that handle intercellular digestion and waste disposal.

Vacuole

Storage sacs for food, water, and waste; plant cells typically have one large central version, while animal cells have multiple smaller ones.

Peroxisomes

Organelles that break down fatty acids and detoxify chemicals.

Cytoskeleton

The structure responsible for maintaining cell shape and enabling movement.

Chloroplast

An organelle found in plant cells that serves as the site of photosynthesis.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer in plant cells that provides structural support and protection.

Diffusion

The movement of materials from high to low concentration.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water.

Filtration

Movement of materials across a membrane due to pressure.

Active transport

A type of cellular transport that requires $ATP$.

Endocytosis

The process by which materials enter the cell.

Exocytosis

The process by which materials leave the cell.

Edema

A condition where excess fluids accumulate on tissue due to altered hydrostatic or osmotic pressure.

Dehydration

The loss of body water, which leads to the disruption of cellular functions.

Cancer

A condition resulting from the loss of normal cell cycle control, leading to uncontrolled cell division.