Cell Organelle Functions Flashcards

Cell Organelles and Their Functions

• Plasma Membrane: Essential for maintaining homeostasis, regulating what enters and exits the cell.
• Nucleolus: Site of ribosome production, crucial for protein synthesis.
• Nucleus: Control center of the cell, governing all cellular functions and activities.
• Ribosome: Synthesize proteins by translating the genetic instructions from DNA.
• Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum: Involved in lipid production and the detoxification of harmful substances.
• Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum: The surface is studded with ribosomes; key location for protein synthesis and transport between nucleus and cytoplasm.
• Cytoskeleton: Provides structural support, maintaining cell shape and anchoring organelles.
• Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion outside the cell.
• Lysosome: Contains enzymes that digest and recycle excess or damaged organelles.
• Nuclear Membrane: Surrounds the nucleus, regulating molecular exchange and providing protection.
• Cytoplasm: Gel-like substance that houses organelles and is the site of numerous biochemical reactions.
• Centrioles: Play a critical role in cell division by facilitating chromosomal separation.
• Chloroplast: Found in plant cells, captures sunlight energy for photosynthesis, converting it into chemical energy.
• Vacuole: Storage unit for nutrients, water, and waste products; larger in plant cells.
• Cell Wall: Provides structural support and protection to plant cells and some bacteria, maintains shape.
• Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell, site of cellular respiration where glucose is converted into ATP (usable energy).
• Organelle: Specialized structures within eukaryotic cells that perform distinct cellular functions.
• Eukaryotic Cell: Complex cell type with a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles, found in plants, animals, fungi.
• Prokaryotic Cell: Simpler cell type without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, encompasses bacteria and archaea.
• Cilia: Short, hairlike projections aiding in movement and feeding through coordinated beating.
• Flagella: Long, whip-like structure that enables motility in certain cells.
• Microtubules: Component of the cytoskeleton, providing shape and facilitating movement of organelles and structures.
• Peroxisomes: Contain enzymes to break down fatty acids and detoxify harmful compounds, including alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.
• Vesicle: Small membrane-bound sacs involved in transporting molecules within and outside of the cell.