Evolutionary Origin of Cells and Their General Features

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the evolutionary origin of cells and their structure and function.

Cell Theory

The theory that states all organisms are made of one or more cells, the cell is the fundamental unit of life, and all cells come from preexisting cells.

Prokaryotes

Cells with a simple structure, lacking a nucleus.

Eukaryotes

More complex cells that have their DNA enclosed within a membrane-bound nucleus.

Cytosol

The fluid component inside the cell where organelles are suspended.

Plasma Membrane

A boundary that separates the cell's interior from its external environment.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins inside the cell.

Microtubules

Cylindrical structures made of tubulin that provide structural support and play roles in cell division and organization.

Cilia and Flagella

Structures made of microtubules that protrude from cells and are involved in cell movement.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An interconnected network of membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

A series of stacked, flat membranous sacs that modify, package, and distribute proteins.

Lysosomes

Membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste.

Central Vacuole

A large vacuole found in plant cells that stores nutrients and waste products.

Mitochondria

Organelles that generate ATP through the processes of aerobic respiration.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in eukaryotic plant cells that carry out photosynthesis.

Endosymbiosis

A theory that explains how eukaryotic cells originated from symbiotic relationships between different species of prokaryotes.

Protein Sorting

The process of directing different proteins to their destined cellular locations.

Cotranslational Sorting

The process by which proteins destined for the ER, Golgi, or other membranes are synthesized and sorted during translation.

Post-translational Sorting

The process by which proteins synthesized in the cytosol are later directed to their final organelle.