Cells Flashcards
What are the distinguishing features of eukaryotic cells?
Eukaryotic cells have membrane bound organelles, and their genetic material is enclosed in a nucleus.
What is the structure of the cell-surface membrane?
The cell surface membrane is a phospholipid bilayer. Phospholipids have hydrophilic phosphate heads and hydrophobic fatty acid tails, so the heads point outwards and the tails point inwards. It also contains intrinsic and extrinsic proteins, glycolipids and glycoproteins on the exterior surface, and cholesterol molecules.
What is the function of the cell-surface membrane
It is selectively permeable, selectively allowing some substances in and out of the cell. It also has receptors on its surface, allowing recognition of foreign and abnormal cells.
Describe the structure of the nucleus
The nucleus is surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, which has nuclear pores in it. The interior of the nucleus consists of the nucleoplasm, within which is the nucleolus. Also in the nucleoplasm is chromatin.
Describe the function of the nucleus
Holds and stores genetic information, which codes for proteins. It is also the site of DNA replication as well as the site of transcription, producing mRNA. Also, Ribosomes are produced in the nucleolus.
Describe the structure of a ribosome
Made up of ribosomal RNA and 2 subunits of protein. It is not membrane bound.
Describe the function of a ribosome
Site of protein synthesis
Describe the function of the RER
Ribosomes on the surface synthesise proteins, which are then processed, in the RER and are then packaged into vesicles for transport around the cell.
Describe the function of the SER
Synthesises and processes lipids
Describe the structure of the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Consists of a system of fluid filled channel-like membranes. The RER has attached Ribosomes.
Describe the function of the Golgi Apparatus and Vesicles
The Golgi modifies and packages proteins and lipids, and also produces lysosomes. The Golgi vesicles transport proteins and lipids around the cell.
Describe the function of lysosomes.
They release hydrolytic enzymes called lysozymes, which hydrolyse pathogens.
Describe the structure of lysosomes.
They are surrounded by a membrane and contain lysozymes, which are digestive enzymes.
Describe the structure of mitochondria
Mitochondria consist of an outer membrane, Cristae, which are the inner membrane folds, and the matrix containing small 70S ribosomes and circular DNA
Describe the function of mitochondria
Mitochondria are the site of aerobic respiration, producing ATP for energy release.
Describe the structure of chloroplasts
Chloroplasts have a double membrane, and stroma, which contain thylakoid membrane, 70S ribosomes, circular DNA, starch granules and lipid droplets. Chloroplasts also contain lamellae, and grana (stacks of thylakoid)
Describe the function of chloroplasts
Absorb light energy for photosynthesis
Describe the structure of the cell wall
Composed of Cellulose in plants and algae. Composed of Chitin in fungi, and of Murein in bacteria.
Describe the function of the cell wall
Provides structural support to the cell, preventing the cell bursting due to osmotic action.
Describe the structure of the vacuole
Contains cell sap and is surrounded by a tonoplast membrane.
Describe the function of the vacuole
Maintains turgor pressure in the cell, stopping the plant wilting. Also contains cell sap which stores sugars, amino acids, pigments and any waste chemicals.
What is a tissue?
Group of specialised cells with a similar structure working together to perform a specific function.
What are the 2 main distinguishing features of prokaryotic cells?
They lack membrane-bound organelles, and therefore their genetic material is not enclosed in a nucleus
What is an organ?
Group of tissues working together to perform a specific function