Cell Biology: Cellular Structure and Function

The part of the nucleus responsible for synthesis of ribosomes, essential components for protein synthesis in the cytoplasm.

These are regions on chromosomes containing multiple copies of genes crucial for ribosome synthesis.

Metabolic reactions that build complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy.

Metabolic reactions that break down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.

Reactions involving the transfer of electrons between molecules.

Reactions that cleave chemical bonds by adding water molecules.

The addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, often activating or deactivating it.

The removal of a phosphate group from a molecule.

Groups of atoms attached to a carbon backbone, giving biomolecules their specific chemical properties and reactivity.

Functional groups that impart water solubility and hydrogen bonding capacity, crucial for interactions with water.

The movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of low water concentration.

A type of passive transport where molecules move from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration until equilibrium is reached.

When the extracellular fluid's osmolarity is lower than the fluid inside the cell.

When the extracellular fluid's osmolarity is higher than the cell's cytoplasm.

When the extracellular fluid's osmolarity is the same as the cell's cytoplasm.

A type of passive transport where molecules move down their concentration gradient with the help of membrane proteins.

A type of active transport where molecules are moved against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

A type of facilitated diffusion where a solute moves across the membrane through a protein channel.

A type of facilitated diffusion where a carrier protein binds to a molecule and transports it across the membrane

The process of a cell releasing material from inside to the outside by fusing a vesicle with the cell membrane.

The process of a cell taking in material by engulfing it in a vesicle.

A type of endocytosis where a cell engulfs solid particles like debris or bacteria.

A type of endocytosis where a cell takes in liquid.

A highly specific type of endocytosis where a cell takes in specific molecules using receptor proteins.

All the internal contents of a cell excluding the nucleus. It's mainly water and contains important molecules and organelles.

A network of flattened, interweaving tubules formed by membranes within the cell. They create mazes of narrow channels.

The process of breaking down (by oxidation) of excess fatty acids. This process is a major function of the peroxisomes in the human liver.

The site of protein synthesis in cells, composed of RNA and proteins. They assemble amino acids into polypeptide chains.

The double membrane surrounding the nucleus, separating it from the cytoplasm. It has pores that allow molecules in and out.

A key organelle responsible for cellular respiration. It oxidizes metabolic products to generate ATP - cell's energy currency.

A compartment surrounded by a membrane containing enzymes that break down macromolecules like proteins, fats, and nucleic acids. They are responsible for digestion and recycling within the cell.

Small organelles that contain enzymes for various metabolic functions, including the breakdown of fatty acids and the production of H2O2. They are also involved in the synthesis of cholesterol and bile acids.

The process of breaking down hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) which is a potentially dangerous product of fatty-acid oxidation. It is catalyzed by the enzyme catalase.

A network of protein fibers that provide structural support, shape, and movement to cells. It's involved in intracellular transport and cell division.

Thin, thread-like filaments made up of actin protein monomers. They are involved in muscle contraction, cell movement, and providing structural support.

Straight, hollow cylinders built from tubulin protein. They are important for cell division, transport, and various cellular processes.

A layer of proteins inside the nuclear membrane that may help to stabilize the nuclear membrane.

The site of ribosome assembly in eukaryotes. It is located within the nucleus.

Thread-like structures composed of DNA wound around proteins (histones). They carry genetic information and are crucial for cell division.

The basic, fundamental unit of life that makes up all living organisms.

Living organisms composed of a single cell.

Living organisms composed of two or more cells.

Cells lacking a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles, typically found in bacteria.

Cells containing a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

The outer boundary of a cell that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

The fluid inside a cell that contains the cell's organelles.

A type of lipid that forms the structural basis of the cell membrane, with a water-loving head and a water-fearing tail.