NHA Review Flashcards
Plasma Membrane
Description: Selectively permeable membrane (allows only certain substances through) made of phospholipids and proteins surrounding the entire cell
Function: Separates the internal components of the cell from the surrounding environment. Essential to the life of the cell
Cytoplasm
Description: Gel-like fluid filling the inside of the cell that is compromised primarily of water, with electrolytes, metabolic waster products, and nutrients dissolved within it
Function: Contains many suspended organelles, or cell structures. Medium for chemical reactions
Nucleus
Description: Lare, spherical body near the center of the cell containing genetic material in the form of DNA
Function: Control center of the cell. Regulates cell activity. Houses genetic material
Nuclear Membrane
Description: Double-layered, porous membrane surrounding the nucleus
Function: Protects the nucleus, allowing in only specific materials
Nucleolus
Description: Dark, dense body within the nucleus without an enclosing membrane; most cells contain one to four
Function: Forms RNA and ribosomes
Mitochondria
Description: Elongated, rod-shaped bodies filled with fluid, containing DNA. Known as the “power plant” of the cell
Function: Convert nutrients into energy for use by the cell/body; create adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
Ribosomes
Description: Small granules of RNA found in the nucleolus or cytoplasm
Function: Protein synthesis for both internal and external use
Endoplasmic Reticulum
Description: Complex connection of membranous fluid-filled, flat sacs and tubular channels. Connects the cell membrane to the nucleus membrane, as well as some organelles. Comprised of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)
Function: Transports materials throughout the cell. RER: Supports the synthesis and transport of proteins. SER: Supports the synthesis of some lipid molecules, including steroids
Golgi Apparatus
Description: Four to six flat membranous sacs, connected to the endoplasmic reticulum; typically found near the nucleolus
Function: “Packaging and shipping plant” of the cell. Packages and releases materials secreted by the cell for external use. Forms lysosomes for sure within the cell
Lysosomes
Description: Sacs surrounded by membranes created by the Golgi apparatus
Function: Digest waste materials including damaged materials found in the cell, old cell components, and materials entering the cell
Cytoskeleton
Description: Comprised of protein microfilaments and microtubules
Function: Maintains the shape and structure of the cell. Keeps organelles in place and moves them throughout the cell as needed
Centrioles
Description: Paid of rod-shaped bodies made of microtubules found near the nucleus
Function: Participate in cell reproduction through the distribution of DNA to new cells
Cilia
Description: Short hair-like microtubules projecting from the cell membrane
Function: Aid in the movement of substances along the surface of the cell
Flagella
Description: Long, hair-like microtubules, projecting from the cell membrane
Function: Move the cell itself, through a whip-like motion
