Eukaryotic Cell Structure Overview

Introduction

• Eukaryotic Cells vs. Prokaryotic Cells
  • Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles
  • Include animal cells, plant cells, protists, fungi

Cell Membrane

• Semi-permeable phospholipid bilayer
• Functions:
  • Cell transport (allows entry/exit)
  • Communication
  • Protection

Cell Wall

• Found in plant cells
• Provides protection and structural support

Nucleus

• Contains genetic information
• Surrounded by nuclear envelope (a phospholipid bilayer)
  • Contains nuclear pores for material exchange
• Nucleolus: Produces incomplete ribosomes

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

• Rough ER:
  • Contains ribosomes, synthesizes proteins for secretion or cell membrane
• Smooth ER:
  • Lacks ribosomes, produces lipids, detoxifies substances

Golgi Apparatus

• Series of membrane-bound sacs
• Functions:
  • Sorts, modifies, and packages proteins
  • Releases proteins in secretory vesicles

Ribosomes

• Free Ribosomes:
  • Not membrane-bound, synthesize proteins for cytosol
• Difference between ribosomes in Rough ER and free ribosomes

Cytosol vs. Cytoplasm

• Cytosol: Fluid part of the cytoplasm, excludes organelles
• Cytoplasm: Includes organelles between cell membrane and nucleus

Mitochondria

• Power plant of the cell
• Transforms energy into usable form
• Contains its own DNA

Lysosomes

• Specialized vesicles with hydrolytic enzymes
• Break down unwanted material

Peroxisomes

• Specialized vesicles, break down fats
• Detoxify substances (e.g., in liver)

Centrioles

• Found in animal cells, not in plant cells
• Function in cell division

Flagellum

• Provides motility to cells
• Structure varies between prokaryotes and eukaryotes

Glycosomes

• Found in plant cells, break down lipids

Chloroplast

• Found in plant cells
• Solar power plant: Uses sunlight, CO2, and water to produce sugars

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Conclusion

• Overview of organelles and structures in eukaryotic cells
• Future lectures will delve into details of each organelle