Tour of the Cell

Introduction

• Discussion led by Mr. Andersen
• Focus on types of cells and their internal structures

Importance of Cell Size

• Cells are small due to diffusion as the main mode of material transport (e.g., oxygen, carbon dioxide)
• Small size ensures efficient diffusion
• Cells can't be infinitely small; need to house DNA and essential machinery

Complexity of Cells

• Cells are not simple 'bags of jelly'
• Cytoskeleton: Lattice structure inside cells made of macromolecules
• Organelles operate like a monorail system within the cell using motor proteins

Microscopy

• Cells were invisible until the invention of microscopes
• Optical Microscopes: Use light and lenses
• Electron Microscopes: Use magnets for electron manipulation (Transmission and Scanning types)
• Future: Fluorescent optical microscopes for live cell imaging

Types of Cells

• Prokaryotic Cells: Lack a nucleus (e.g., Bacteria, Archaea)
• Eukaryotic Cells: Have a nucleus (e.g., Plants, Animals, Fungi, Protists)
• All cells contain: DNA, cell membrane, cytosol, ribosomes

Eukaryotic Cell Organelles

1. Nucleolus

   • Found within the nucleus
   • Assembles ribosomes

2. Nucleus

   • Contains DNA
   • Often referred to as the control center
   • Houses genetic material

3. Ribosome

   • Builds proteins
   • Present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

4. Vesicle

   • Membrane-bound containers
   • Transport materials

5. Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

   • Factory of the cell
   • Produces membranes and proteins

6. Golgi Body

   • Modifies and packages proteins
   • Functions like a shipping department

7. Cytoskeleton

   • Provides structural support
   • Comprised of microtubules and microfilaments

8. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

   • Produces lipids
   • Detoxification role

9. Mitochondria

   • Generates ATP
   • Has its own DNA
   • Supports endosymbiotic theory

10. Vacuole

    • Large in plants, small in animals
    • Stores materials like water

11. Cytosol

    • Fluid containing solutes
    • Complex concentration gradients

12. Lysosome

    • Contains digestive enzymes
    • Involved in cell apoptosis

13. Centriole

    • Important in cell division
    • Positions cell parts

Study Tips

• Use flashcards for memorization of organelles and their functions
• Understanding these components is key for deeper cell biology knowledge

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These notes summarize the main points of Mr. Andersen's podcast on cell structure and function, aimed at providing an overview and aiding in study.