2.4 Eukaryotic Cell Structure

Nucleus

The control center of the cell, containing DNA.

Cytoplasm

The jelly-like fluid inside the cell where organelles are suspended.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins.

Centrioles

Structures made of 9 microtubules in a cylinder, involved in cell division.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

Endoplasmic reticulum with ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

Endoplasmic reticulum without ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis.

Cytoskeleton

Network of protein filaments that provide structure and support to the cell.

Mitochondria

Organelles that are the site of cellular respiration and ATP production.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that modifies proteins and sends them out through exocytosis.

Vesicles

Transport and secretory. Small membrane-bound sacs that transport materials within the cell.

Microtubule network

A component of the cytoskeleton involved in cell shape and vesicle and organelle transport. Create spindle fibres and centrioles.

Plasma Membrane

The outer boundary of the cell that controls movement in and out.

Nuclear Envelope

Double membrane that protects the nucleus.

Nuclear Pores

Structures that allow molecules to move in and out of the nucleus.

Chromatin

DNA loosely wrapped around histone proteins.

Chromatid

One of the two identical halves of a chromosome.

Chromosome

DNA tightly wrapped around histone proteins.

Mitochondrial envelope

Double membrane surrounding mitochondria.

Cristae

Folds of the inner membrane of mitochondria.

mtDNA

Circular DNA found in mitochondria.

Matrix

The cytoplasm within mitochondria.

Cisternae

Flattened membrane-bound compartments within the Golgi apparatus.

Exocytosis

The process by which materials are expelled from the cell.

Protein Synthesis

The process of translating mRNA into proteins.

Histone

Proteins that DNA wraps around to form chromatin.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The energy currency of the cell.

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process that converts food into energy.

Centrosome

2 centrioles at 90 degrees. Organises microtubules during mitosis. Duplicates during cell division.

70s ribosomes

present in prokRYOTES, MITOCHONDRIA AND CHLOROPLASTS