Basic Cell Structure

1. Basic Cell Structure

2. Cell Membrane a thin layer of lipid and protein that separates the cells contents (insides) from its environment (outsides). **The cell membrane controls what enters and leaves the cell. Also called the plasma membrane.

3. Cytoplasm • a semi-fluid substance made mostly of water and organic compounds that is found between the cell membrane and the nucleus. • Organelles are suspended in the cytoplasm.

4. Organelles • Structures that perform specific functions within a cell • “little organs”

5. Cytoskeleton • a network of protein fibers and tubes that extend throughout the cytoplasm. This network gives the cell support and helps to maintain or change its shape.

6. Nucleus • The control center of a cell. It is the most easily seen of the cells organelles. • The nucleus contains most of the cells genetic material. • It is surrounded by a double membrane called a nuclear membrane or nuclear envelope.

7. Chromosomes – located in the nucleus, the cells genetic information – DNA (nucleic acids) Nucleolus – a dense portion of the nucleus where ribosomes are made.

8. Ribosomes • Small organelles that help assemble amino acids into protein chains. They are found floating in the cytoplasm and attached to membranes. • Both eukaryotes and prokaryotes have ribosomes.

9. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) • A large network of membranes that produce materials for the cell

10. There are TWO types of Endoplasmic reticulum • Rough ER – has ribosomes on its surface and functions in the synthesis (making) of proteins • Smooth ER – Makes lipids, processes carbohydrates and toxic waste.

11. Golgi Apparatus • a series of flat, membrane-bound sacs that sorts, packages, and transports substances in the cell. • Vesicle = sac containing manufactured materials

12. Mitochondria • Energy producing organelles. They change energy stored in food compounds into energy usable by the cell (ATP).

13. Lysosomes • Saclike organelles that contain digestive enzymes to break down macromolecules (such as proteins) or old organelles. • Mostly found in animal cells

14. Cilia • short, hair-like projections that are found in large numbers on the surface of certain cells. • Function in movement

15. Flagella • A long, tail-like projection used in movement.

16. Put it all together!

17. Plant vs Animal Cells

18. Cell Wall • Plant cells have a cell wall that is a tough rigid outer covering that protects the plant cell and helps it maintain its shape. It is composed mostly of cellulose. Fungi, algae, and bacteria also have cell walls. • **Animal cells DO NOT have cell walls.

19. Chloroplast • structures that enable the plant to make sugar through photosynthesis. Contain chlorophyll (a pigment) that gives the plant cell its green color.

20. Vacuole • All plant cells contain a large central vacuole – a membrane bound compartment that serves many functions. The main function is the absorption of water, but they also may store proteins, ions and waste products. • Animal cells may have vacuoles, but they are very small.

21. Centriole • Animal cells also have centrioles – small cylinder shaped organelles that help move chromosomes during cell division. • NOT found in plants