Cell function

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts in pathophysiology and cellular biology.

Eukaryotes

Organisms composed of cells that have a nucleus enclosed within membranes, including higher animals, plants, fungi, and protozoa.

Procaryotes

Single-celled organisms that lack a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, such as bacteria.

Cellular functions

Essential activities of cells, including movement, conductivity, metabolic absorption, secretion, excretion, respiration, reproduction, and communication.

Nucleus

The membrane-bound structure in the center of a cell that contains RNA, DNA, DNA-binding proteins, and is essential for cell division and genetic information control.

Cell membrane

A double-layered membrane that surrounds the cell, allowing selective movement of molecules in and out.

Homeostasis

The state of equilibrium in the body's systems, maintained through communication between cells.

Signal transduction pathways

Processes by which cells respond to external stimuli through a series of molecular events leading to cellular responses.

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

The primary energy carrier in cells, produced through the metabolism of nutrients.

Oxidative stress

An imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defenses, leading to cell damage.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs in a regulated manner, often beneficial for removing dysfunctional cells.

Necrosis

Uncontrolled cell death resulting from acute cellular injury, leading to inflammation.

Atrophy

The decrease in cell size, leading to organ shrinkage, often due to disuse or inadequate nutrition.

Hypertrophy

An increase in cell size, resulting in an increase in the size of the affected organ, often in response to increased workload.

Hyperplasia

An increase in the number of cells due to increased cell division, often as an adaptive response to stress.

Dysplasia

The abnormal development or growth of cells, tissues, or organs, which can be a precursor to cancer.

Free radicals

Unstable molecules with unpaired electrons that can cause oxidative stress and damage cellular components.

Chemical injury

Cellular damage caused by exposure to harmful chemicals, leading to oxidative stress or inflammation.

Lead poisoning

A toxic condition resulting from exposure to lead, adversely affecting neurological functions, particularly in children.

N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor

A specific receptor in the brain that is inhibited by lead, affecting learning and memory functions.

Paracrine signaling

A type of intercellular communication where signaling molecules affect nearby cells.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells across synapses.