Lecture 13 - Endomembrane Trafficking, Cytoskeletal System, ECM Structure, Transport and Communication

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the endomembrane trafficking, cytoskeletal system, and cellular communication as discussed in the lecture notes.

Endomembrane System

A system that connects all the internal membranes of the eukaryotic cell.

Cytoskeleton

The network of protein fibers that provides structural support and aids in cell movement.

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

A network that integrates cells into tissues and assists in cell signaling.

Nucleus

The command center of the cell where gene expression occurs.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A cellular structure that processes proteins and is often referred to as the 'Amazon distribution center'.

Polypeptide Translocation

The process by which a ribosome feeds a growing polypeptide into the endoplasmic reticulum.

Secretory Pathway Hypothesis

A theory that describes the steps proteins undergo for secretion from the cell.

Transport Vesicles

Membrane-bound carriers that transport proteins from the Golgi apparatus to their destination.

Exocytosis

The process through which large molecules are sent to the cell surface and released.

Endocytosis

The process by which the cell takes in molecules by forming vesicles from the plasma membrane.

Microtubules

Protein structures that provide stability, are involved in organelle movement, and act as 'railroad tracks' for transport.

Actin Filaments

Protein fibers that define cell shape and aid in muscle movement and cell division.

Passive Transport

The movement of substances across a membrane without the input of energy.

Active Transport

The movement of substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Membrane Potential

The voltage across a membrane created by differences in ion distribution.

Cotransport

A mechanism where the transport of one solute drives the transport of another solute against its gradient.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Plasma membrane receptors that activate a G protein to trigger cellular responses.

Ligand-Gated Ion Channels

Receptors that open or close in response to ligand binding, allowing ions to pass through.