Cell Structure and Function Overview

Cytoplasm

- serves as the site for chemical reactions and supports organelles.

- all functions are carried out here

cytosol

-semi fluid substance where different organelles are suspended

Cytoskeleton

- A network of fibers that helps maintain the cell's shape, provides support, and organizes organelles.

- formation of vacuoles

- microfilament

- microtubule

- tubulins

3 filaments of cytoskeleton

Centrioles

- Barrel-shaped structures that assist in organizing microtubules

- cell's skeletal system

- determining the positions of the nucleus and other organelles.

Nucleus

- membrane-bound organelle that contains the genetic material

- control what goes in & out

Ribosomes

Cellular structures made of RNA and protein that are the sites of protein synthesis.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

An organelle involved in the synthesis, folding, and modification of proteins destined for various locations.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

An organelle that synthesizes lipids, steroids, and phospholipids and is involved in detoxification.

Golgi Apparatus

- modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Vesicles

- small membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within or outside the cell.

- secretory, vesicles, lysosomes

Lysosomes & peroxisomes

- enzymes for digesting macromolecules and old cell parts.

Peroxisomes

Organelles that contain enzymes for oxidizing fatty acids and amino acids.

Mitochondria

- where cellular respiration occurs to produce energy.

Cilia

Hair-like structures that help in the movement of the cell or movement of substances along the cell surface.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that enable certain cells to swim or move.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells that provides support and protection.

Chloroplasts

- capture sunlight and CO2 to produce food (glucose) and oxygen through photosynthesis.

Vacuoles

- compartments that store nutrients, waste products, and help maintain turgor pressure in plant cells.