Foundations in Biology

Plasma membrane

A phospholipid bilayer forming the boundary of the cells. It is embedded with proteins and regulates what enters and leaves the cell

Cell wall

A rigid structure made of cellulose that surrounds the cell membrane and provides support to the cell

Nucleus

A membrane bound organelle found in eukaryotic cells that stores the genetic information in the form of chromosomes

Nucleolus

A dense spherical structure in the nucleus of a cell during interphase. Site of ribosome synthesis.

Nuclear envelope

A double membrane that surrounds the nucleus

Lysosome

Membrane bound vesicles containing hydrolytic enzymes that break down pathogens and old organelles. Produced in golgi body

Ribosome

Site of protein synthesis. Contains 2 sub units

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum

A series of membrane bound flattened sacs. Ribosomes are attached to outer surface. Folds and processes proteins.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum

A series of membrane bound flattened sacs. Involved in synthesis and storage of lipids.

Mitochondria

Site of aerobic respiration and ATP synthesis

Vesicle

A membrane bound sac used to transport materials around the cell

Golgi Apparatus

Membrane bound organelle that modifies proteins made at RER into glycoproteins. Packages proteins for secretion and makes lysosomes.

Flagella

A whip like structure made of microtubules and and create movement for the cell.

Cilia

Hair like projections made from microtubules. 9+2 wheel like formation. Used to move substances along the cell surface

Chloroplast

A double membrane organelle with thylakoids containing chlorophyll where photosynthesis takes place

Centriole

Made of microtubules and involved in the separation of chromosomes during cell division