Cell structure & function Flashcards
Cytoskeleton
A complex network of protein filaments found in the cell’s cytoplasm that plays a crucial role in providing structural support, maintaining cell shape, facilitating cellular movement etc.
Properties
Actin filament
also known as Microfilaments
They are long, thin and flexible filaments made of actin proteins. They…
- Consists of two chains of globular actin monomers
- Involved in cell division (actin pinches off the cells from one another)
- Involved in cell movement (interact with motor molecules )
Intermediate filaments
Ropelike assembly of fibrous polypeptides. It consists of 8 tetramers rolled into a ropelike filament bundle .
- Provide structural support to the nuclear envelope.
- Anchor organelles within the cytoplasm.
- Aid in maintaining cell shape.
- Maintain tissue integrity.
Nucleus
Stores DNA and synthesizes mRNA (transcription).
Contains:
* Nucleolus
* Chromatin
* Nuclear lamin proteins
* Nuclear matrix
Nucleolus
A mass of densely stained granules and fibres.
It is the site of ribosomal synthesis and rRNA synthesis
Chromatin
A mixture of DNA and proteins that can form chromosomes
Nuclear envelope
A membrane barrier made up of TWO lipid bilayers that…
- Prevents the free, uncontrolled exhange of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.
- Protects the genetic material.
- Has nuclear pores on its surface for regulated transport of RNA and proteins.
Define
Rough ER
An extensive network of membranous tubules and sacs that…
* Is a continuation of the nuclear envelope.
* Has a large surface area for ribosomes to attach.
* Allows simultaneous production of proteins.
What post-translation modification is undergone in the rough ER
- Glycosylation of polypeptide chain by OLIGOSACCHARYLTRANSFERASE.
- Chaperones begin the folding process.
- Polypeptide chain is transported to the edge of the RER to vesicular transport.
Chaperone protein
A protein that folds polypeptide chains into a smaller volume.
E.g. Calnexin, Calreticulin, BiP
Glycosylation
The covalent attachment of carbohydrates to the backbone of a protein by oligosaccharyltransferase.
- This allows the proper folding of the protein.
- Increases Solubility and stability
What do the ribosomes on the Rough ER membrane do?
- Membrane-bound ribosomes translate mRNA into amino acids.
- Polypetide chain is formed.
Smooth ER
A network of membranous tubules and sacs that…
* Synthesis of lipids (cholesterol and phospholipids)
* Detoxifies the cell (makes harmful substances more water-soluble for easier excretion)
* Stores calcium ions and releases them when required (e.g. muscle contraction,cellular singnalling processes )
* Converts cholesterol into steroid hormones (e.g. cortisol, aldosterone and sex hormones)
* Regulates glycogen metabolism (via enzymes that participate in glycogenolysis and glycogenesis)
Describe the structure & function of the Golgi apparatus
A membrane-bound organelle that consists of a series of cisternae stacked on top of each otherforming different distinct regions cis, medial and trans.
It specialises in modifying, sorting and packaging lipids and proteins into vesicles for transport in the cell or for secretion outside of the cell.
Where does the golgi send proteins?
- Lysosomes
- Cytosol
- Cell membrane
- Secretion (via the cell membrane)
Define
Cytosol
A semi-fluid substance in the cell that helps breakdown waste products
Lysosome
Membrane-bound vesicles produced by the golgi apparatus that contain hydrolytic enzymes for the hydrolysis of mainly proteins.
* Are used in phagocytosis
* Are used in apoptosis
What is a perixosome and its function
A membrane-bound organelle that is responsible for the breakdown of lipids and fatty acids.
It also protects the cell from reactive oxygen species
Contains oxidative enzymes