Cells and Cell Biology

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cells, their structure, function, and specialization, as well as tissues and stem cells.

Cell

The basic building block of all living organisms.

Prokaryotic cells

Smaller cells that do not have their genetic material enclosed in a nucleus.

Eukaryotic cells

Plant and animal cells with a defined nucleus containing genetic material.

Cell membrane

A thin barrier that surrounds the cell, controlling what enters and exits.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like substance in a cell where chemical reactions occur.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell that contains DNA and instructions for cell functions.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that carry out photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll.

Vacuole

A large fluid-filled space in plant cells for storage of substances like cell sap.

Differentiation

The process by which cells change shape and function to perform specific jobs.

Unicellular

Organisms made up of only one cell, such as amoeba.

Multicellular

Organisms made up of many cells, such as spirogyra.

Tissue

A group of similar cells that perform a specific function.

Organ

A structure made of different tissues working together for a specific job.

Stem cells

Undifferentiated cells capable of developing into different types of cells.

Cloning

The process of making genetically identical copies of cells or organisms.

Therapeutic cloning

A method of cloning stem cells that avoids rejection by the patient’s body.