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Cells are the basic units of life, classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types, each with distinct structures and functions. Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells contain them, including a nucleus and mitochondria. Understanding cell structure and function is crucial for studying biological processes and advancements in biotechnology.

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9 views3 pages

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Cells are the basic units of life, classified into prokaryotic and eukaryotic types, each with distinct structures and functions. Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells contain them, including a nucleus and mitochondria. Understanding cell structure and function is crucial for studying biological processes and advancements in biotechnology.

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Gabi Marek
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Cell Structure and Function

Introduction
Cells are the basic structural and functional units of life. All living organisms are
composed of one or more cells, which carry out essential biological processes.
Cells can be broadly classified into two types: prokaryotic cells (bacteria and
archaea) and eukaryotic cells (plants, animals, fungi, and protists). This
document explores the structure and function of various cellular components.

Types of Cells
1. Prokaryotic Cells
Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other organelles. Their key
characteristics include:
 Cell membrane: Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the
cell.
 Cytoplasm: Contains enzymes and ribosomes necessary for metabolic
reactions.
 Ribosomes: Small structures responsible for protein synthesis.
 Nucleoid: A region where the circular DNA is located.
 Cell wall: Provides structural support and protection.
 Flagella or pili: Aid in movement and attachment to surfaces.
2. Eukaryotic Cells
Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles, including a defined
nucleus. Their key components are:
 Plasma Membrane: A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that
controls transport and communication.
 Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.
 Cytoplasm: The fluid where organelles are suspended.
 Mitochondria: The powerhouse of the cell, responsible for ATP production.
 Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Includes the rough ER (with ribosomes,
aiding protein synthesis) and smooth ER (involved in lipid synthesis and
detoxification).
 Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for
transport.
 Lysosomes (in animal cells): Contain enzymes for digestion and waste
removal.
 Chloroplasts (in plant cells): Conduct photosynthesis to produce energy.
 Vacuoles: Store nutrients, waste, and help maintain turgor pressure in
plant cells.
 Cytoskeleton: A network of filaments that provides shape, movement,
and intracellular transport.

Functions of Cellular Organelles


1. Nucleus
 Houses the cell’s DNA.
 Directs gene expression and cellular activities through transcription and
translation.
2. Mitochondria
 Site of cellular respiration.
 Converts glucose into ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
3. Ribosomes
 Synthesize proteins from amino acids.
 Found in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough ER.
4. Endoplasmic Reticulum
 Rough ER synthesizes proteins and transports them.
 Smooth ER is involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification.
5. Golgi Apparatus
 Modifies proteins and lipids.
 Packages and distributes them to various parts of the cell or for secretion.
6. Lysosomes (Animal Cells Only)
 Break down waste materials and cellular debris.
 Digest harmful bacteria and viruses.
7. Chloroplasts (Plant Cells Only)
 Convert sunlight into chemical energy via photosynthesis.
 Contain chlorophyll, the pigment necessary for light absorption.
8. Vacuoles
 Store nutrients and waste.
 Provide structural support in plant cells by maintaining turgor pressure.
9. Cytoskeleton
 Composed of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.
 Maintains cell shape and facilitates intracellular transport.

Cell Transport Mechanisms


Cells transport substances through their membranes using different mechanisms:
 Passive Transport: Movement of molecules from high to low
concentration without energy input. Examples:
o Diffusion

o Osmosis

o Facilitated diffusion (via carrier proteins)

 Active Transport: Movement of molecules against a concentration


gradient using ATP. Examples:
o Sodium-potassium pump

o Endocytosis (intake of substances via vesicles)

o Exocytosis (release of substances via vesicles)

Cell Division
Cells reproduce through division, which occurs in two main forms:
 Mitosis: Division of somatic (body) cells to produce two identical daughter
cells for growth and repair.
 Meiosis: Division of gamete (sex) cells, producing four genetically diverse
cells for reproduction.
Stages of Mitosis:
1. Prophase: Chromosomes condense, nuclear membrane dissolves.
2. Metaphase: Chromosomes align at the cell’s equator.
3. Anaphase: Sister chromatids separate and move toward opposite poles.
4. Telophase: Nuclear membrane reforms, and cell prepares to split.
5. Cytokinesis: The cytoplasm divides, forming two new cells.

Conclusion
Cells are the fundamental units of life, with complex structures that perform
essential functions. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ in organization and
complexity, but both play critical roles in sustaining life. Understanding cellular
structures and their functions helps in studying life processes, diseases, and
biotechnological advancements.

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