Principles of Biology 1 - Cell Functions and Structures

These flashcards cover the essential vocabulary related to cell biology, including structures, functions, and types of cells.

Cell

The fundamental unit of life, serving as the building block of all living organisms.

Microscope

An essential tool for revealing cell features by magnifying and enhancing clarity of structures.

Cell Fractionation

A technique used to separate cellular components based on size and density.

Centrifugation

A process that spins the homogenate at high speeds to separate components based on their density.

Prokaryotic Cell

A type of cell that lacks a membrane-bound nucleus and has a single circular DNA strand in a nucleoid region.

Eukaryotic Cell

A cell that contains a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles, allowing compartmentalization of functions.

Plasma Membrane

A selective barrier that regulates what enters and exits the cell, composed of a phospholipid bilayer.

Organelle

Specialized structures within a cell that perform specific functions, such as ribosomes and lysosomes.

Mitochondria

Organelles responsible for producing ATP, involved in cellular respiration, and containing their own DNA.

Chloroplast

An organelle involved in photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll to absorb light energy.

Endomembrane System

A system of membranes that regulates protein movement and performs metabolic functions within a cell.

Microtubules

The largest component of the cytoskeleton, providing structural support and involved in chromosome movement.

Microfilaments

The thinnest cytoskeletal fibers made of actin that are involved in cell shape and motility.

Intermediate Filaments

Cytoskeletal components that provide mechanical strength and structural support to cells.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network of proteins and carbohydrates that provide structural support and facilitate cell communication.

Tight Junctions

Specialized cell-cell attachments that create a leak-proof barrier between adjacent animal cells.

Desmosomes

Cell junctions that provide strong adhesion and structural support between adjacent cells.

Gap Junctions

Communication channels between adjacent cells that allow ions and small molecules to pass.

Plasmodesmata

Plant-specific cell junctions that permit cytoplasmic exchange between adjacent cells.