Unit 4: Functions and Systems

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to functions, cellular components, and systems in biology.

Salivary Gland

An organ that produces saliva to aid in digestion.

Nervous System

The system that controls and coordinates the activities of other organ systems.

Mitochondria

Cell organelles that supply energy in the form of ATP via aerobic respiration.

Nucleus

Contains DNA and is responsible for storing genes.

Ribosomes

Molecules that make proteins within cells.

Cerebrum

The largest brain part responsible for intelligence, memory, personality, and movement.

Frontal Lobe

The brain lobe involved in movement, speech, behavior, mood, and memory.

Synapse

The connection point where one neuron communicates with another.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical messenger that transmits signals between neurons.

Endocytosis

The process of taking in materials into a cell.

Exocytosis

The process of releasing materials from a cell.

Autocrine Signaling

When a signal acts on the same cell that released it.

Paracrine Signaling

When a signal acts on nearby cells.

Endocrine Signaling

When a signal travels through the bloodstream to distant cells.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis in which a cell 'eats' solids.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis where a cell 'drinks' fluids.

Photoreceptors

Cells in the retina that convert light into electrical signals.

Rods

Photoreceptors in the eye responsible for night vision.

Cones

Photoreceptors in the eye responsible for color vision.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder that affects chloride ion movement in cells.

Stem Cells

Cells with the ability to develop into many different cell types.

Ethical Concerns of Stem Cell Research

Concerns regarding the moral implications of using embryonic stem cells.

Villi

Finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase nutrient absorption.

Digestive Enzymes

Substances that help break down food into absorbable forms.