Cell and Mitosis: Location, Function, and Cell Cycle Key Concepts

Plasma membrane

Selectively permeable barrier with proteins for transport, signaling, and recognition.

Cytoplasm

Located between the plasma membrane and the nucleus; houses organelles, site for chemical reactions, stores materials.

Cytoskeleton

Network of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules for support and movement.

Centrosome with centrioles

Near the nucleus, helps form spindle fibers for cell division.

Cilia and flagella

Cilia move mucus and particles; flagella propel whole cells.

Microvilli

Small projections on cell surfaces that increase surface area for absorption.

Rough ER

Extends from nuclear envelope, studded with ribosomes, modifies and transports proteins.

Smooth ER

No ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and detoxification.

Golgi apparatus

Processes, sorts, and ships proteins; located near ER and nucleus.

Lysosomes

Contain enzymes for breakdown and recycling of waste and old organelles.

Peroxisomes

Especially in liver cells, detoxify harmful substances and break down fatty acids and toxins.

Mitochondria

Power plant of the cell that makes ATP and can replicate itself.

Ribosomes

Free in cytosol for internal proteins or bound to ER for export/membrane proteins.

Nuclear envelope

Surrounds the nucleus with pores, protecting DNA and controlling access to it.

Nucleolus

Located inside the nucleus, produces ribosomal parts.

Chromatin/DNA

Stored inside the nucleus; contains instructions for proteins.

Interphase

Main steps include G1 (growth), S (DNA replication), G2 (prepare for division).

Mitosis

Includes Prophase (chromosomes condense), Metaphase (align), Anaphase (separate), Telophase (nuclear envelope reforms).

Cytokinesis

Division of the cytoplasm, forming two daughter cells.