Crop Science Hack 101: Plant Cell and Biology

Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells

• Plant Cells:

  • Multicellular organisms
  • Contain chloroplasts and cell walls (absent in animal cells)
  • Photosynthesis: Use light to create energy (carbohydrates and sugar)

• Animal Cells:

  • Multicellular organisms
  • Can move but cannot produce their own food; must consume plants or other animals
  • Lack chloroplasts and cell walls

Structure of Plant Cells

• Key Components:
  • Cell Wall: Provides structure and support; not present in animal cells
  • Chloroplasts: Contain chlorophyll; crucial for photosynthesis
  • Cell Membrane: Selective passage for substances
  • Cytoplasm: Gel-like fluid holding organelles
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum: Rough (with ribosomes) and smooth types
  • Golgi Apparatus: Packages proteins and carbohydrates
  • Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell; converts glucose to ATP
  • Nucleus: Contains DNA and controls cell functions
  • Ribosomes: Create proteins from amino acids
  • Vacuole: "Cell trash can," maintains shape and holds unwanted substances

Plant Cell Types

• Prokaryotes:

  • Found in bacteria
  • Lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles

• Eukaryotes:

  • Found in plants and animals
  • Contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles

Plant Hormones

• Auxin:

  • Causes cell elongation and division
  • Affects plant growth in small/large amounts
  • Can act as herbicide in high concentrations (e.g., 2,4-D)

• Gibberellin:

  • Causes cell enlargement and division
  • Increases fruit size (e.g., in grapes)

• Cytokinin:

  • Causes cell division and differentiation
  • Used in tissue culture to promote balanced growth

• Ethylene:

  • Promotes ripening and flower petal drop
  • Used to hasten ripening of certain fruits

• Abscisic Acid:

  • Causes leaf and fruit drop
  • Used for leaf loss in winter dormancy and easing crop harvesting

Upcoming Activities

• Readings on plant cell functions and hormones
• Creation of a function and purpose table for hormones
• Cell structure quiz involving labeling and function identification

Conclusion

• Contact instructor via email or call for questions
• Prepare for upcoming quizzes and assignments