primary components of human cells

plasma membrane

description: Selectively permeable membrane (allows only certain substances through) made of phospholipids and proteins surrounding the entire cell

function: Separates the internal components of the cell from the surrounding environment

Essential to the life of the cell.

Cytoplasm

description: Gel-like fluid filling the inside of the cell that is comprised primarily of water, with electrolytes, metabolic waste products, and nutrients dissolved within it

function: Contains many suspended organelles, or cell structures

Medium for chemical reactions

Nucleus

Description: large, spherical body near the center of the cell containing genetic material in the form of DNA

Function: Control center of the cell

Regulates cell activity

Houses genetic material

Nuclear membrane

Description: double layer poorest membrane surrounding the nucleus

Function: protect the nucleus, allowing an only specific materials

Nucleolus

Description: dark dense body within the nucleus without an enclosing membrane, most cells contain one to four

Function: forms RNA and ribosomes

Mitochondria

description: Elongated, rod-shaped bodies filled with fluid, containing DNA

Known as the "power plant" of the cell

function: Convert nutrients into energy for use by the cell/body; create adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

Ribosomes

Description: small granules of RNA found in the nucleolus or cytoplasm

Function: protein synthesis for both internal external use

Endoplasmic reticulum

description: Complex connection of membranous fluid-filled, flat sacs and tubular channels

Connects the cell membrane to the nucleus membrane, as well as some organelles

Comprised of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)

function: Transports materials throughout the cell

RER: Supports the synthesis and transport of proteins

SER: Supports the synthesis of some lipid molecules, including steroids

Golgi apparatus

Description: 4 to 6 flat membrane sacks connected to the endoplasmic rectum, typically found near nucleus

Function: “ packing and shipping plant “ Packages and releases material secreted by the cell or external use

Lysosomes

Description: sex surrounded by membranes created by the Golgi apparatus

Function: Digest waste, material materials, including damaged material

Cytoskeleton

Description: Comprised of protein, microfilaments and microtubules

Function: maintain shape and structure of cell

Centrioles

Description: pair of rod shaped bodies made of microtubules found near the nucleus

Function: Participate in cell reproduction through the distribution of DNA to new cells

Cilia

Description: short hair like microtubules Projecting from the cell membrane

Function: Aid in the movement of substances along the surface of the cell

Flagella

Description: Long hair like microtubules Projecting from the cell membrane

Function: Move the cell itself through a whip like motion