Function of Cell Structures

Vocabulary flashcards detailing the cellular structures and their corresponding functions based on Table 4.1.

Plasma Membrane

Controls movement of substances into and out of the cell

Microvilli

Folds of the plasma membrane that increase the surface area of the cell to increase absorption or secretion

Nucleus

Contains DNA molecules and nucleolus

Nucleolus

Assembly site for ribosomes

Chromatin

Long thin strands within nucleus. Each strand composed of one DNA molecule and associated proteins.

Cytoplasm

Area of the cell between plasma membrane and nucleus. Includes cytosol and organelles

Cytosol

Fluid portion of cytoplasm in which many of the cells' chemical reactions occur

Mitochondria

Makes ATP via aerobic cellular respiration

Ribosomes

Site of protein synthesis in cytosol and RER

Rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)

Synthesize proteins and phospholipids used in the plasma membrane and organelles or secreted via exocytosis

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)

Fatty acid and steroid synthesis; detoxifies toxic substances; stores calcium

Golgi complex

Receives and modifies proteins from RER; sorts and and modifies them for transport

Secretory vesicles

Secrete substances outside the cell by exocytosis

Lysosomes

Enzymes digest and recycle worn-out organelles and substances entering the cell; can digest the cell

Peroxisomes

Produce hydrogen peroxide; detoxify harmful substances

Cytoskeleton

Three kinds of protein filaments; maintain cell shape and involved in cell movement and movement of organelles

Centrosomes (centrioles)

Form mitotic spindle; needed to form cilia and flagella

Cilia

Abundant, hair-like cell projections that move fluids and particles along the cell surface

Flagella

Long cell projection; whip-like motion moves sperm