Cytology Flashcards
Describe the function of the nucleus in a cell
The nucleus serves as the control centre of the cell, housing the cell’s genetic material and coordinating activities such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction
Explain how organelles work together for the overall functionality of the cell
Organelles collaborate by performing specialised functions that contribute to the cell’s overall health and operation, such as energy production, protein synthesis, and waste management
Identify the components of the plasma membrane
The main components of the plasma membrane include phospholipids, proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates
Define eukaryotic cells and provide an example
Eukaryotic cells are complex cells that contain a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles; examples include animal and plant cells
How do prokaryotic cells differ from eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells are simpler, single-celled organisms without a membrane-bound nucleus or organelles, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and can be multicellular
Describe the structure of the plasma membrane
The plasma membrane is structured as a fluid mosaic model, consisting of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that allow for flexibility and functionality
What is the role of the phospholipids in the plasma membrane?
Phospholipids control what enters and exits the cell due to their hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails, forming a selective barrier
List some functions of the Golgi apparatus
The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles
Explain the function of mitochondria in a cell
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell, generating ATP through cellular respiration to provide energy
Describe the role of ribosomes in cellular function
Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, translating messenger RNA into polypeptide chains
Identify the function of lysosomes
Lysosomes contain digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris
What is the function of the cytoskeleton?
The cytoskeleton provides structural support, helps maintain cell shape, and facilitates movement within the cell
Define the term ‘fluid mosaic model’
The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of the plasma membrane as a dynamic and flexible layer of phospholipids with various proteins embedded
How do cilia function in a cell?
Cilia are hair-like structures that help in movement and the transportation of substances across the cell surface
Describe the role of the rough endoplasmic reticulum
The rough endoplasmic reticulum is involved in the synthesis and processing of proteins, as it is studded with ribosomes
What is the function of secretory lysosomes?
Secretory lysosomes are specialised lysosomes that release their contents outside the cell, playing a role in secretion
Identify the function of peroxisomes
Peroxisomes are organelles that contain enzymes for breaking down fatty acids and detoxifying harmful substances
Explain the significance of the nucleolus within the nucleus
The nucleolus is responsible for producing ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and assembling ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis
Define the function of peripheral proteins in the plasma membrane
Peripheral proteins act like enzymes and are located only on one side of the membrane
