Cell Biology: Nucleus and Cell Membrane

Study Notes

Control center of the cell: contains most of the cell's genetic material (DNA)
Separated from the cytoplasm by a double membrane: nuclear envelope
Has nuclear pores: allow for the exchange of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm
Contains nucleolus: a region where ribosome synthesis occurs

Semipermeable membrane: allows certain substances to pass through while keeping others out
Composed of phospholipid bilayer: two layers of lipid molecules with phosphate heads and fatty acid tails
Embedded with proteins: perform various functions such as transport, signaling, and cell adhesion
Maintains cell shape and provides support: acts as a barrier to the outside environment

Powerhouses of the cell: generate energy for the cell through cellular respiration
Have two membranes: outer membrane and inner membrane with folds (cristae) to increase surface area
Contain their own DNA: mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is separate from nuclear DNA
Perform cellular respiration: convert glucose into ATP (energy) through the process of oxidative phosphorylation

Genetic material hub: stores most of the cell's DNA, responsible for passing genetic traits to new cells
Double-layered protection: nuclear envelope separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm, regulating molecular exchange
Molecular gateway: nuclear pores facilitate the exchange of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm
Ribosome synthesis site: the nucleolus is a region within the nucleus where ribosomes are assembled

Selective barrier: allows certain substances to pass through while keeping others out, maintaining cellular homeostasis
Phospholipid bilayer structure: composed of two layers of lipid molecules with phosphate heads and fatty acid tails, providing flexibility and stability
Protein-embedded: proteins are embedded in the cell membrane, enabling functions like transport, signaling, and cell adhesion
Shape and support: maintains cell shape and provides structural support, protecting the cell from external damage

Energy generation: responsible for generating energy for the cell through cellular respiration, powering cellular activities
Dual membrane structure: consists of an outer membrane and an inner membrane with folds (cristae), increasing surface area for energy production
Independent DNA: mitochondria have their own DNA, separate from nuclear DNA, which encodes genes for energy production
Energy conversion: perform cellular respiration, converting glucose into ATP (energy) through the process of oxidative phosphorylation