Cell Biology Basics

The largest organelle in a cell, enclosed by a double membrane. It contains chromosomes, which are made of DNA, and controls cell division. It also contains a darker region called the nucleolus where ribosomes are made.

Small structures found in all cells that are responsible for synthesizing (making) proteins. They can be free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum.

A network of interconnected, fluid-filled spaces within a cell. It's responsible for transporting materials throughout the cell.

A type of ER with ribosomes attached to its surface. It plays a key role in protein synthesis and storage. The proteins are made by the ribosomes and then stored in small sacs called vesicles.

A type of ER that lacks ribosomes. It's crucial for the production of lipids (fats).

A rigid structure found outside the cell membrane that provides support and shape to plant cells. It's also present in fungal cells and some protists like algae and bacteria.

A thin, selectively permeable layer that controls what goes in and out of the cell. It acts as a barrier between the cell's interior and its surroundings.

A gel-like substance inside the cell that contains all the cell's organelles and is mostly made of water. It's like the cell's inner space where everything happens.