BIO1010 Study Guide Module 9: Cellular Structures

Flashcards covering the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cellular components, as well as external cell structures.

Nucleoid

The central part of a prokaryotic cell containing the prokaryotic DNA, which holds the cell's genetic material, often including multiple plasmids.

Plasmid

A shorter, circular DNA molecule found in prokaryotes, typically containing one to a few genes.

Prokaryotic Cell Wall (Peptidoglycans)

A layer of protection in prokaryotes, made of peptidoglycans, that helps the cell maintain its shape and prevent dehydration, often featuring a polysaccharide capsule.

Capsule

The outer layer of a prokaryotic cell that helps it attach to surfaces in its environment.

Nucleus

The part of a eukaryotic cell that holds the cell's DNA and directs the synthesis of ribosomes and proteins.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

A eukaryotic organelle, lacking ribosomes on its surface, that synthesizes carbohydrates, lipids, phospholipids, and steroid hormones, and also detoxifies poisons.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

A eukaryotic organelle with ribosomes attached to its surface, where these ribosomes help translate proteins directly through its surface.

Golgi Apparatus

A eukaryotic organelle with multiple separate compartments where proteins and lipids are sorted, packaged, and tagged to ensure they reach the correct location.

Vesicles

Smaller eukaryotic cell structures that transport materials, like nutrients, between organelles.

Vacuoles

Larger eukaryotic cell structures that store various substances within the cell, such as water, nutrients, or waste.

Lysosomes

Eukaryotic organelles containing enzymes that break down proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, and nucleic acids, acting as one of the cell's 'garbage disposals'.

Peroxisomes

Eukaryotic organelles that carry out oxidation reactions, breaking down fatty acids and amino acids, also functioning as a 'garbage disposal'.

Mitochondria

Eukaryotic organelles known as the 'powerhouse' of the cell, responsible for making adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell's main energy carrier.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures extending from the plasma membrane of a cell, helping to move entire cells or substances along their outer surface.

Flagella

Long, hair-like structures extending from the plasma membrane of a cell, primarily involved in moving the entire cell and aiding locomotion.

Microvilli

Finger-like projections formed by the folding of the plasma membrane, which help the cell absorb nutrients from digested food.

Organelle Distribution in Cells

Different cell types have varying amounts of specific organelles to fulfill their unique specialized functions or requirements, enabling them to function effectively.