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Overview of Cell Biology Concepts
Jan 5, 2025
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Cell Biology Lecture Notes
Basic Characteristics of Cells
Cells: Smallest living units of an organism.
Common features of all cells:
Cell Membrane:
Separates cell interior from the environment.
Cytoplasm:
Jelly-like fluid inside the cell.
DNA:
Genetic material of the cell.
Categories of Cells
Eukaryotic Cells
Have organelles, including a nucleus.
More advanced and complex; found in plants and animals.
Prokaryotic Cells
No nucleus or membrane-enclosed organelles.
Genetic material exists freely; unicellular organisms like bacteria.
Organelles and Their Functions
Organelles:
Specialized cell parts with unique functions.
Nucleus:
Control center containing DNA.
DNA dictates cell function and behavior.
Chromatin:
Spread-out form of DNA inside nuclear membrane.
Chromosomes:
Condensed DNA during cell division.
Nucleolus:
Site where ribosomes are made.
Ribosomes:
Synthesize proteins.
Can be free in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
Rough ER:
Has ribosomes; involved in protein synthesis.
Smooth ER:
Lacks ribosomes; involved in lipid synthesis.
Golgi Apparatus:
Processes and packages proteins.
Modifies proteins into usable forms with added lipids or carbohydrates.
Vacuoles:
Storage sacs for materials.
Central vacuole in plant cells stores water.
Lysosomes:
Break down cellular debris with enzymes.
Mitochondria:
Powerhouse of the cell, produces energy (ATP) via cellular respiration.
Chloroplasts:
Site of photosynthesis in plant cells, contains chlorophyll.
Cytoskeleton:
Maintains cell shape, includes microfilaments and microtubules.
Unique Cell Structures
Cell Wall:
Provides shape, support, and protection in plant cells (absent in animal cells).
Cilia:
Hair-like structures in respiratory tract cells, trap particles and assist movement.
Flagella:
Tail-like structures for cell movement, present in some bacteria and sperm cells.
Summary
Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic Cells:
Eukaryotic: Plants and animals, nucleus present.
Prokaryotic: Unicellular, no nucleus.
Commonality: All cells have cell membrane, cytoplasm, and DNA.
Plant cells uniquely have chloroplasts; both plant and animal cells have mitochondria.
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