3.4 Eukaryotic cell structure Flashcards
what are eukaryotic cells?
cells which contain a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
What is the role of the nucleus?
- control centre of the cell through production of mRNA and tRNA, and therefore protein synthesis.
- Retains genetic material in form of DNA and chromosomes.
- Makes rRNA and ribosomes
What are the main parts of the nucleus?
- nuclear envelope
- nuclear pores
- nucleoplasm
- chromosomes
- nucleolus
Describe the nuclear envelope.
A double membrane that surrounds the nucleus.
- outer membrane is continuous with the endoplasmic reticulum and has ribosomes on the surface.
- controls the entry and exit of materials and contains their reaction.
Describe the role of the nuclear pores.
Allow the passage of large molecules, such as mRNA out of the nucleus.
Describe the nucleoplasm
granular jelly making up most of the nucleus.
Describe the chromosomes.
protein-bound, linear DNA
Describe the nucleolus
Small spherical region in the nucleoplasm. makes rRNA and assembles ribosomes.
What is the role of the mitochondria?
- site of the aerobic stage of respiration.
- Responsible for the production of ATP from respiratory substrates
Very common in metabolically active cells such as epithelial cells from the intestines which require energy for active transport.
What are the main feature of the mitochondria?
- a double membrane
- cristae
- matrix
What is the role of the double membrane in a mitochondrion?
- controls entry and exit of material
- inner membrane is folded into extensions (cristae)
What is the role of the cristae in a mitochondrion?
Extensions of the inner membrane, provide a large SA for the attachment of enzymes and proteins involved in respiration.
What us the role of the matrix in the mitochondria?
- contains proteins, lipids, ribosomes and DNA which allows it to make its own proteins
- enzymes are also found there.
What is the role of chloroplasts?
the harvest sunlight to carry out photosynthesis.
What are the main parts of a chloroplast?
- the chloroplast envelope
- the grana
- the tylakoids
- the stroma