Animal Cell Structure and Organelles

Animal Cell Structure

• Plasma membrane is semi-permeable, regulating what enters and leaves the cell.
• Cytoplasm is a jelly-like substance where metabolic reactions occur.
• Cytoskeleton provides structural support, shape, and movement to the cell.

Organelles

Nucleus

• Controls cell growth and division.
• Contains DNA.

Mitochondria

• Generates energy for the cell through cellular respiration.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

• Involved in protein synthesis, transport, and storage.

Ribosomes

• Site of protein synthesis.

Lysosomes

• Contain digestive enzymes that break down and recycle cellular waste.

Golgi Apparatus

• Modifies, packages, and transports proteins and lipids.

Centrioles

• Involved in the formation of cilia, flagella, and spindle fibers.

Cellular Components

Chromatin

• Complex of DNA and proteins that makes up the chromosomes.

Peroxisomes

• Involved in the breakdown of fatty acids and amino acids.

Cilia

• Hair-like structures that aid in movement and sensing.

Flagella

• Long, whip-like structures that aid in movement.

Cell Membrane Functions

• Selective permeability: allows certain substances to pass through while keeping others out.
• Cell signaling: receptors on the surface of the cell membrane receive signals from other cells.
• Cell-cell recognition: cells recognize and respond to each other through membrane proteins.