Cell Organelles: Structure, Functions, and Key Features

hope it helps with AP Bio Unit 2.1

Nucleus

Stores genetic information (DNA), synthesis of RNA, ribosome subunit assembly.

Nuclear Envelope

Double membrane with pores.

Smooth ER

Detoxification, calcium storage, lipid synthesis.

Smooth ER Structure

Folded, tubelike structure (cisternae).

Rough ER

Site of membrane-bound protein and secreted protein synthesis, cell compartmentalization, mechanical support, role in intracellular transport.

Rough ER Structure

Membrane studded with ribosomes attached to nuclear envelope.

Ribosomes

Protein synthesis.

Ribosomes Structure

Composed of rRNA and protein, large & small subunits, types: bound or free (cytoplasmic).

Golgi Complex

Folding and chemical modification of synthesized proteins, packaging protein traffic.

Golgi Complex Structure

Membrane-bound structure composed of flattened sacs (cisternae).

Lysosome

Intracellular digestion (recycle cell organic materials & programmed cell death: apoptosis).

Lysosome Structure

Membrane-enclosed sacs that contain hydrolytic enzymes.

Mitochondria

Site of oxidative phosphorylation (cristae/inner membrane), site of Krebs Cycle (matrix).

Mitochondria Structure

Double membrane (outer: smooth; inner: highly folded).

Vacuole

Storage and release of macromolecules and cellular waste products, central: water retention - turgor pressure, contractile: osmoregulation (protist), food: phagocytosis, fuse with lysosome.

Vacuole Structure

Membrane-bound sac.

Chloroplast

Site of photosynthesis.

Chloroplast Structure

Double outer membrane (thylakoid sac stacked: grana and fluid: stroma).