Inside the Cell

Nucleus

Information storage and transmission, ribosome subunit assembly

Ribosomes

Making proteins

Rough ER 

Studded with ribosomes, synthesizes proteins that will be shipped to another organelle, inserted into the plasma membrane, or secreted to the cell exterior.

Smooth ER 

Lacks ribosomes, storage for Ca2+, and contains enzymes that catalyze reactions involving lipids. Synthesizes lipids and breaks down lipids and other molecules that are poisonous. 

Golgi Apparatus

Processes, sorts, and ships proteins synthesized in the rough ER. Cis (facing the nucleus) side receives products from the rough ER. Trans (facing the plasma membrane) side ships them out to other organelles or the cell surface.

Lysosome

contains 40 different enzymes (acid hydrolases). Recycling centers are found only in animal cells.

Endomembrane System 

Lysosomes, Golgi Apparatus, and ER, centers for producing, processing, and transporting proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.

Vacuoles

Some digest and recycle macromolecules, storage for water and ions.

Peroxisomes

center of reduction-oxidation (redox) reactions. Oxidation often produces hydrogen peroxide. 

Mitochondria

powerhouse of the cell

Chloroplasts

for photosynthesis, they have their own ribosomes and own DNA

Endosymbiosis Theory

Ancestor of modern eukaryotes engulfed bacteria. A mutually beneficial relationship evolved. Mitochondria and chloroplasts have their own membranes and DNA.

Cytoskeleton

Gives cell shape and structural stability. Transports materials within cells. 

Cell Wall 

Fungi, algae, and plants. outside the plasma membrane. Gives structural support to the cell. 

Extracellular matrix 

Diffuse mixtures of secreted proteins and polysaccharides.