Cell Structure, Function, and Membrane Dynamics in Anatomy & Physiology

What does the cell theory state?

Cells are the building blocks of all plants and animals, produced by the division of preexisting cells, are the smallest units that perform all vital physiological functions, and maintain homeostasis.

What is cytology?

The study of the structure and function of cells.

What types of cells does the human body contain?

Somatic and sex cells.

What surrounds a typical cell?

Extracellular fluid, which is the interstitial fluid of the tissue.

What is the outer boundary of a cell called?

The cell membrane or plasma membrane.

List three functions of the cell membrane.

Physical isolation, regulation of exchange with the environment, and structural support.

What is the structure of the cell membrane?

A phospholipid bilayer with proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates.

What are integral proteins?

Proteins that are embedded within the phospholipid bilayer of the cell membrane.

What are peripheral proteins?

Proteins that are attached to the exterior or interior surfaces of the cell membrane.

What are anchoring proteins?

Proteins that help attach the cell membrane to the cytoskeleton or extracellular matrix.

What are recognition proteins?

Proteins that help the immune system recognize foreign substances.

What role do receptor proteins play in the cell membrane?

They bind to specific molecules (ligands) and initiate cellular responses.

What are carrier proteins?

Proteins that facilitate the transport of substances across the cell membrane.

What is the glycocalyx?

A carbohydrate-rich zone on the cell surface formed by glycoproteins and glycolipids.

What are proteoglycans?

Large molecules consisting of a core protein with attached glycosaminoglycan chains, found in the glycocalyx.

What are glycolipids?

Lipids with carbohydrate groups attached, contributing to the glycocalyx.

What are glycoproteins?

Proteins that have carbohydrate groups attached, also part of the glycocalyx.

What is the transmembrane potential?

The voltage difference across the cell membrane due to the distribution of ions.

What is the cell life cycle?

The series of stages that a cell goes through from formation to division.

What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

To protect the cell and regulate what enters and exits.

How do cells maintain homeostasis?

Through coordinated actions of many cells and regulation of their internal environment.