Introduction to the Cell and Cell Parts

Cell

• Lowest level of organization capable of performing all life activities

• Enclosed by a membrane and uses DNA as genetic material

Robert Hooke

First to observe cells (microscopic structures) and name them as such. Wrote the Micrographia.

Anton van Leeuwenhoek

First to see living, moving cells. Created a microscope with a much higher magnification than usual.

Schleiden & Schwann

Posited the first statements of the cell theory:

• all plants and animals made of cells

Rudolf Virchow

Posited the final statement of the cell theory:

• all cells arise from pre-existing cells

Prokaryotic Cell

Small, simple cells with no nucleus. DNA in nucleoid, no membrane-bound organelles (Bacteria/Archaea)

Eukaryotic Cell