SEM 1 - CELLS 1: INTRO TO CELL STRUCTURES

Eukaryote

Animal, Plant, Fungi

Prokaryote

Bacterial Cells

Eukaryote Structure

Larger, Complex, Has Nucleus and Membrane Bound Organelles, Can be Multicellular or Unicellular

Prokaryote Structure

Small, Simple, Always Unicellular, Lacks nucleus and membrane bound organelles

Key structures of nucleus

Nuclear membrane, Nuclear pore, Nucleolus and Chromatin

Nuclear membrane and Functional Significance

Double membrane protecting nucleus.

Nuclear Pore and Functional Significance

Allows transport of proteins, RNA, and other molecules in and out of nucleus

Nucleolus and Functional Significance

Site of ribosome RNA synthesis from rRNA and proteins.

Chromatin and Function

DNA and proteins that condense to form chromosomes during cell division; involved in gene regulation and DNA replication.

Ribosomes and Location

Site of protein synthesis, can be free in cytoplasm or bound to RER

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum

Network of channels that synthesise proteins for export.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

Network of membrane tubules involved in lipid production and detoxifying enzymes

Mitochondria Structure and Function

Rod or round shape with a double membrane that has folds. Powerhouse of the cell that generates ATP supply

Golgi Body

3-20 flattened membrane sacs that modify, process and sort proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles

Lysosomes

Contains digestive enzymes that degrade waste materials and cellular debris

Peroxisomes

Breaks down organic molecules via oxidation.

Cellular Inclusions

Non-living cell components

Lipofuscin

Accumulation of pigment granules from lipid degeneration.

Residual bodies

Indigestible materials that accumulate.

Secretory Vesicles Function

Transport proteins to cell membrane for secretion.

Pigment

Stored in the cell, often involved in protection or colouration (e.g melanin).

Glycogen

Storage form of glucose, found in liver and muscle cells. Can be converted back to glucose for energy.

Stored waste

Non-essential and harmful substances that are isolated within the cell to prevent damage.