Topic 3 Flashcards
what is a nucleus?
a large organelle surrounded by a NUCLEAR ENVELOPE (double membrane), which contains many PORES.
the nucleus contains CHROMATIN (made from DNA and proteins) and a NUCLEOLUS.
what is the function of a nucleus?
controls the cell’s activities by controlling the transcription of DNA. the pores allow substances such as RNA to move between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
the nucleolus makes ribosomes.
the DNA in the chromosomes contain the genes that control the synthesis of proteins.
describe a lysosome.
a round organelle surrounded by a membrane with no clear internal structure.
what is the function of a lysosome?
contains DIGESTIVE ENZYMES.
these are kept separate from the cytoplasm by the surrounding membrane, and can be used to digest invading cells or to break down worn out components of the cell.
the acrosome is a specialised lysosome.
describe a ribosome.
a very small organelle that either FLOATS FREE in the cytoplasm or is attached to the ROUGH ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM.
it is made up of proteins and RNA.
it is not surrounded by a membrane.
what is the function of a ribosome?
the site of protein synthesis
describe the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).
a system of membranes enclosing a fluid-filled space. the surface is covered with ribosomes.
what is the function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)?
folds and processes proteins that have been made at the ribosomes.
proteins made at these ribosomes are transported through the ER to other parts of the cell in vesicles.
describe the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER).
a system of membranes enclosing a fluid-filled space.
similar to the RER but with no ribosomes.
what is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?
synthesises and processes lipids.
describe the golgi apparatus.
a group of fluid-filled, membrane-bound, FLATTENED SACS.
vesicles are often seen at the edges of the sacs.
what is the function of the golgi apparatus?
processes and packages new lipids and proteins in vesicles.
also makes lysosomes.
describe a mitochondrion.
oval-shaped.
have a double membrane - the inner one is folded to form CRISTAE.
inside is the MATRIX, which contains enzymes involved in respiration.
what is the function of mitochondria?
the site of aerobic respiration where ATP is produced.
they are found in large numbers in cells that are very active and require a lot of energy.
describe a centriole.
small, hollow cylinders, made of MICROTUBULES (tiny protein cylinders).
found in animal cells but only some plant cells.