Eukaryotic Cells

Vocabulary flashcards based on Eukaryotic Cells lecture notes.

Eukaryote

Any organism consisting of one or more cells that contain DNA in a membrane-bound nucleus, separate from the cytoplasm.

Organelles

Specialized, membrane-bound structures within eukaryotic cells.

Nucleus

Houses nearly all the cell's genetic material.

Chromatin

Consists of DNA and proteins within the nucleus.

Nucleolus

Makes RNA, which is used to create ribosomes.

Nuclear Envelope

The double-membrane structure surrounding the nucleus, containing nuclear pores for molecular transport.

Nuclear Pores

Holes in the nuclear envelope that allow relatively large molecules to pass through.

Mitochondria

Energy-generating organelle responsible for aerobic respiration and ATP production.

Cristae

Inner membrane folds of the mitochondria, coated in enzymes for ATP production.

Matrix

The liquid within the inner membrane of the mitochondria.

Ribosomes

The site of protein synthesis in a cell, which is where proteins are made. It acts as an assembly line for coded information form the nucleus to be used to make proteins from amino acids.

Golgi Apparatus

Receives proteins from the ER, modifies them (e.g., adding sugar molecules), and packages them into vesicles for transport.

Vesicles

Small, membrane-bound sacs used to transport materials within the cell.

Lysosomes

Specialized vesicles containing powerful digestive enzymes to break down materials.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

A series of flattened membrane-bound sacs studded with ribosomes; transports proteins made on the ribosomes.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

Similar structure to RER but without ribosomes; involved in lipid synthesis.

Centrioles

Self-replicating organelles made of microtubules, found in animal cells, that help organize cell division.

Cilia and Flagella

Structures used for locomotion in single-celled eukaryotes and for moving fluid or materials in multicellular organisms.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers (microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate fibers) that provides structural support and facilitates movement within the cell.