Cell Overview and Organelles

Nucleus

• Acts as command center of the cell
• Contains chromatin (long strands of DNA) which serve as genetic blueprint
• DNA contains instructions for protein and organelle production
• Nucleolus: Produces ribosomal RNA for ribosome creation
• Ribosomes: Floating in cytosol, manufacture proteins
• mRNA: Carries instructions from DNA to ribosome for protein synthesis
• Nuclear Envelope: Surrounds nucleus with nuclear pores for transport

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

• Rough ER: Contains ribosomes, assists in protein production
• Smooth ER: Lacks ribosomes, produces lipids, cholesterol, hormones, assists in detoxification

Golgi Apparatus

• Modifies, processes, and exports proteins received from rough ER
• Proteins are tagged with lipids and carbs
• Exported proteins leave the cell via transport vesicles

Mitochondria

• Contains separate DNA
• Performs cellular respiration
• Converts energy from fats/carbs into ATP

Lysosome

• Breaks down food, contains digestive enzymes
• Destroys pathogens in white blood cells

Cytoplasm

• Jelly-like fluid dissolving organelles
• Contains solutes like salts, electrolytes, carbs, lipids

Cytoskeleton

• Maintains cell shape, provides structural support
• Comprised of three fibers:
  • Microtubules: Largest, made of tubulin, support and transport
  • Microfilaments: Smallest, made of actin, assist movement
  • Intermediate Filaments: Provide mechanical support

Centrioles

• Active during cell division
• Form mitotic spindle to pull apart chromosomes

Cilia and Flagella

• Aid in cell movement
• Cilia: Short, hair-like structures; numerous
• Flagella: Long, whip-like structures; few in number
• Both made of microtubules

Plant Cell Characteristics

• Vacuole: Large, stores water/nutrients, provides structural support
• Chloroplast: Contains chlorophyll, conducts photosynthesis
• Cell Wall: Provides additional support, not found in animal cells

Cell Membrane

• Present in both animal and plant cells
• Made of phospholipid bilayer
• Selectively permeable, allows passage of some molecules
• Contains protein channels for larger molecules

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