2.1.1 - Cell Structure (set A - Euckaryotic Cell Organelle) Flashcards
Define a prokaryotic organism?
Prokaryotes are organisms whose cells lack a nucleus and other organelles, prokaryotes are divided into two distinct groups: the bacteria and the archaea
Define eukaryotic organisms?
A eukaryote is any organism consisting of one or more cells that contain DNA in a membrane-bound nucleus, separate from the cytoplasm - examples are plant, animal, fungi and protists
Explain the structure of the nucleus, make reference to all key parts?
Large organelle containing a dense structure called the Nucleolus and chromatin (DNA) and is surrounded by the semipermeable Nuclear Envelope, a structure composed of an inner and outer nuclear membrane which contain a number of nuclear pores
Explain the main function of the nucleus?
- Controls the cells activities by controlling the transcription of DNA (instructions needed for making proteins), gene expression mitosis and semiconservative replication
- contains DNA coiled around chromatin into chromosomes
Explain what the plant cell wall is?
Rigid structure that surrounds plant cells, made of cellulose microfibrils for mechanical support
- plasmodesmata form part of apoplast pathway to allow molecules to pass between cells
Explain the function of the cell wall?
The cell wall gives the cell structure, which prevents it from changing shape. It also offers a small level of added protection.
Explain what the plasma cell surface membrane is?
The membrane found on the surface of animal cells and the inside the cell wall of plant cells - the cell membrane consists of a lipid bilayer that is semipermeable - composed of proteins and lipids
Explain the function of plasma cell surface membrane?
Regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell - has receptor molecules on it which respond to chemicals like hormones
What is the lysosome?
A round organelle suspended by a membrane, with no clear internal structure - acts as rubbish bin as they break down excess or worn-out cell parts with digestive enzymes
What is the function of the lysosome?
Contains hydrolytic enzymes kept separate from the cytoplasm by the surrounding membrane, and can be used to digest invading cells or to break down worn out components of the cell
What are ribosomes?
very small organelle that either floats free in the cytoplasm or are attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum - made up of proteins and RNA (not surrounded by a membrane)
What is the function of ribosomes?
The site where proteins are made
What is the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)?
The RER is a membrane bound organelle located near the nucleus It is made up of thin, fluid filled membranes that are stacked together (cisternae) and is covered with ribosomes
What is the function of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)?
Folds and processes proteins that have been made at ribosomes - the site of protein synthesis
What is the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?
Has the same structure as the rough endoplasmic reticulum but does not have ribosomes
What is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?
Responsible for carbohydrate and lipid synthesis, and storage
What is the vesicle?
A small fluid-filled sac in the cytoplasm, surrounded by a membrane
What is the function of the vesicle?
Transports substance in and out of the cell (via the plasma membrane) and between organelles