Cell Structure

nucleus

nucleus

contains hereditary information, DNA, and chromosomes; is the site of RNA synthesis

endoplasmic reticulum

internal transport or compartmentalization

rough er

protein synthesis; packaging; transport

smooth er

lipid synthesis; detoxification; transport

mitochondria

ATP synthesis; aerobic/cellular respiration

chloroplasts, plastids

light absorption; photosynthesis; carbohydrate synthesis

vacuole, vesicles

storage; transport

cilia/flagella

motility

golgi bodies

protein modification; packaging; transport

lysosomes

enzymatic hydrolysis of wastes, metabolites, pathogens

cilia

arms/rowboat attached to the membrane

flagella

cytoskeleton

network of protein fibers; support; motility; regulate biochemical activities

peroxisome

break down fatty acids; detoxes alcohol; involves H2O2 production

extracellular matrix (ECM)

composed of glycoproteins; strengthens tissue; transmits external signals to cell

cell wall

made of cellulose; protect plant and maintain shape

centrosome

region where microtubules grow (organizing centers)

intercellular junctions (animal cells)

tight junctions - 2 cells are fused for a watertight seal
desmosomes - rivets that fashion cells into strong sheets
gap junctions - channels through which ions, sugar, and small molecules can pass