Cell Organelles and Their Functions

• Joe, a human cell, visits a doctor due to feeling sluggish.
• The doctor examines Joe's organelles to identify the cause of his condition.

Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane)

• The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
• Joe's cell membrane is functioning properly.

Organelles

• Organelles are the metabolic machines within a cell where most activities occur.
• They are suspended in the gel-like cytoplasm.
• They can be considered the "little organs" of the cell.

Nucleus

• The nucleus is the control center or "brain" of the cell.
• It has a membrane with pores for transporting materials in and out.
• Contains chromosomes, which hold the cell's genes and genetic material.
• Joe's nucleus and chromosomes are healthy.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

• The ER is a network of tube-like structures that transport substances within the cell, acting as a highway.
• There are two types of ER: smooth and rough.
• Rough ER has ribosomes on its surface, giving it a bumpy appearance.
• Ribosomes, also found freely in the cytoplasm, are responsible for making proteins.

Mitochondria

• The mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell.
• Produce ATP, which is the fuel source for cellular activities.
• Have a smooth outer membrane and a highly folded inner membrane.
• Inner membrane folds provide surface area for cellular respiration.
• Cellular respiration converts food into usable energy.
• Joe's mitochondria are producing energy at a normal rate.

Lysosomes

• Lysosomes contain enzymes that digest food and cell debris.
• It is important that the enzymes are carefully contained to avoid damage to the cell.
• Joe's lysosomes are functioning correctly.

Golgi Bodies (Golgi Apparatus)

• The Golgi bodies are the packaging and distribution centers of the cell.
• They take in proteins and other substances, package them into units, and release them out of the cell.
• Joe's Golgi bodies are working as they should.