Cell Theory and Eukaryotic Cells Flashcards
Cell Theory
- All living things are composed of cells
- The cell is the basic functional unit of life
- Cells arise only from preexisting cells
More recently:
- Cells carry genetic info via DNA: this is passed on from parent to daughter cell
Nucleus
Contains all of the genetic material necessary for replication of the cell. Surrounded by the nuclear membrane or envelope
Nuclear membrane or envelope
A double membrane that maintains a nuclear environment separate and distinct from the cytoplasm
Nuclear pores
In the nuclear membrane; allow selective two-way exchange of material between the cytoplasm and the nucleus.
Genes
Coding regions on genetic material (DNA)
Nucleolus
Subsection of nucleus, where the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is synthesized. Actually takes up approximately 25% of the volume of the entire nucleus; dark spot in nucleus.
Mitochondria structure
Outer membrane: serves as barrier between cytosol and inner environment of mitochondrion.
Inner membrane, arranged in foldings called cristae, contain molecules and enzymes of electron transport chain..
Intermembrane space: space between inner and outer membranes
Matrix: Space inside the inner membrane
Cytoplasmic/extranuclear inheritance and mitochondria
Mitochondria are semi-autonomous: the contain some of their own genes and replicate independently of the nucleus via binary fission.
How are mitochondria thought to have originated
When the engulfing of an aerobic prokaryote by an anaerobic prokaryote resulted in a symbiotic relationship.
Mitochondria’s roles in the cells
Can keep the cell alive by providing energy (ATP), and also can kill the cell by release of enzymes from electron transport chain –> kick-starts apoptosis, programmed cell death
Lysosomes
Membrane-bound structures containing hydrolytic enzymes that are capable of breaking down many different substrates, including substances ingested by endocytosis and cellular waste products
Endosomes
They transport, package, and sort cell material travelling to and from the membrane
Where do endosomes transport materials to?
The trans-golgi, the cell membrane, or the lysosomal pathway for degradation
Autolysis
Process that results when lysosomes release their hydrolytic enzymes: results in apoptosis by directly degrading cellular components.
Endoplasmic reticulum
Series of interconnected membranes that are actually contiguous with the nuclear envelope. Includes smooth and rough ER
Rough ER (RER)
Studded with ribosomes, which permit translation of proteins destined for secretion directly into its lumen
Smooth ER (SER)
Lacks ribosomes and is utilized primarily for lipid synthesis (such as the phospholipids in the cell membrane) and the detoxification of certain drugs and poisons. It also transports proteins from the RER to the Golgi Apparatus
Golgi Apparatus
Consists of stacked membrane-bound sacs; materials from ER are transferred to the Golgi apparatus in vesicles. Inside the Golgi Apparatus, cellular products are modified by adding signal sequences –> then repackaged into vesicles, which are directed to correct cellular location.
Peroxisomes
Contain hydrogen peroxide; one of the primary functions is the breakdown of very long chain fatty acids via Beta-oxidation. They participate in the synthesis of phospholipids and contain some of the enzymes involved in the pentose phosphate pathway
Cytoskeleton
Provides structure to the cell and helps it to maintain its shape. Also provides a conduit for the transport of materials around the cell
3 components of cytoskeleton
Microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments
Microfilaments
Made up of solid polymerized rods of actin. Actin filaments are organized into bundles and networks and are resistant to both compression and fracture, providing protection for the cell.
Functions of microfilaments
Actin filaments can also use ATP to generate force for movement by interacting with myosin, such as in muscle contraction.
Microfilaments also play a role in cytokinesis, or the division of materials between daughter cells.
During mitosis, the cleavage furrow is formed from microfilaments.
Microtubules
Hollow polymers of tubulin proteins. They radiate throughout the cell, providing the primary pathways along which motor proteins like kinesin and dynein carry vesicles. They make up cilia and flagella