human dev revision

Cell Theory

a fundamental theory stating that all living things are made of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells come from pre-existing cells.

Nucleus

the organelle that contains the cell's DNA and is responsible for regulating gene expression.

Mitochondria

organelles known as the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for ATP production and cellular respiration.

Rough ER

an endoplasmic reticulum studded with ribosomes important for the synthesis and processing of proteins.

Smooth ER

an endoplasmic reticulum involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Golgi Apparatus

an organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Lysosomes

organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Peroxisomes

organelles that contain enzymes for fatty acid metabolism and detoxification.

Apoptosis

programmed cell death that is a regulated and controlled process essential for development and tissue homeostasis.

Gene

a sequence of DNA that encodes a functional product, typically a protein.

Transcription Factors (TFs)

proteins that regulate the transcription of genes by binding to specific DNA sequences.

Morphogen

a signaling molecule that forms a concentration gradient and induces different cell fates at different concentrations.

Cytoskeleton

a network of fibers that helps maintain cell shape, provides mechanical support, and facilitates cell movement.

Differentiation

the process by which cells become specialized in structure and function.

Chromatin

a complex of DNA and proteins found in the nucleus that packages DNA into a smaller volume.

Stem Cells

undifferentiated cells with the potential to differentiate into various specialized cell types.

DNA Methylation

a biochemical process that modulates gene expression by adding a methyl group to DNA.

Histones

proteins that help package and order DNA into structural units called nucleosomes.

Embryonic Development

the process by which the embryo forms and develops during early life stages.

Totipotent

the ability of a cell to differentiate into all types of cells, including extraembryonic tissues.

Pluripotent

the ability of a cell to develop into any type of cell of the body, but not extraembryonic.

Multipotent

the ability of a stem cell to differentiate into a limited number of cell types.

Gap Junctions

specialized connections that allow for direct communication between neighboring cells.

Epithelia

a type of tissue consisting of tightly packed cells that line surfaces and cavities throughout the body.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

a complex network of proteins and molecules that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

Homeostasis

the process by which a stable internal environment is maintained despite changes in external conditions.