Cell Structure and Function Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of cells in living organisms?

  • They facilitate digestion.
  • They store energy.
  • They are the building blocks of all tissues. (correct)
  • They provide structural support.
  • Which statement accurately describes eukaryotic cells?

  • They lack a nucleus.
  • They are typically smaller than prokaryotic cells.
  • They reproduce solely through binary fission.
  • They contain membrane-bound organelles. (correct)
  • Which organism is a typical example of a prokaryotic cell?

  • Arabidopsis thaliana
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae
  • Homo sapiens
  • Escherichia coli (correct)
  • What is a key characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

    <p>They lack membrane-bound organelles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'anabolism' refer to in cellular metabolism?

    <p>Usage of energy to build complex molecules. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is part of modern cell theory?

    <p>All organisms are made up of cells. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do mitochondria serve in eukaryotic cells?

    <p>Site of energy production. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

    <p>They contain a nuclear membrane. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the nucleus in a eukaryotic cell?

    <p>Storage of genetic material and regulation of gene expression (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of nuclear pore complexes?

    <p>To control movement of proteins and RNAs across the nuclear envelope (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What substance is primarily found in the nucleolus?

    <p>Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the number of mitochondria vary across different cell types?

    <p>Some cells, like certain algae, may have only one, while others can have thousands (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about chromatin is true?

    <p>Chromatin is a dense mass of coiled DNA found in the nucleus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the nucleoplasm?

    <p>Houses enzymes for DNA and RNA synthesis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature of mitochondria can change based on metabolic conditions?

    <p>Size and shape of mitochondria (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes the function of the nucleolus?

    <p>It synthesizes ribosomal RNA and assembles ribosome subunits (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of membrane lipids in grey matter cells are gangliosides?

    <p>6% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organisms lack cholesterol in their biomembranes?

    <p>Both B and C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are integral membrane proteins characterized in relation to the membrane structure?

    <p>They are embedded within the hydrophobic region of the membrane. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physical characteristic of cholesterol contributes to its function in membrane fluidity?

    <p>Its hydrophobic fused ring system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines peripheral membrane proteins compared to integral membrane proteins?

    <p>They are easily removable without disrupting the membrane. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which compartment of the Golgi complex is primarily responsible for receiving newly synthesized proteins from the ER?

    <p>Proximal compartment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of modifications occur in the Golgi lumen?

    <p>Post-translational modifications (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of secretory vesicles in the Golgi complex?

    <p>To release proteins via exocytosis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which genetic disease is associated with mutations in the genes encoding Golgi proteins?

    <p>Wilson disease (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the Golgi complex in terms of protein sorting?

    <p>It rejects proteins without signal peptides. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which term describes the function of lysosomes?

    <p>Digestive body (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which year were lysosomes first identified and characterized?

    <p>1955 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which diseases are associated with Golgi stacks dispersion?

    <p>Cancer and neurodegenerative diseases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following enzymes is primarily used as a marker for lysosomes?

    <p>Acid phosphatase (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the optimal pH range for lysosomal enzymes to function effectively?

    <p>Acidic pH around 5 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process allows cellular organelles to be digested within lysosomes?

    <p>Autophagy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs when lysosomal membranes rupture during cell death?

    <p>Lysosomal enzymes are released into the cytoplasm (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of enzyme is NOT classified as a lysosomal enzyme?

    <p>Nuclear transfer enzymes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can lysosomal dysfunction contribute to allergic responses?

    <p>By releasing enzymes that damage external biopolymers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What special role does the acrosome, a specialized lysosome, play?

    <p>Facilitates penetration of the ovum (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of enzymes are lipases classified as?

    <p>Lipid hydrolyzing enzymes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of lipids allows them to form cell membranes?

    <p>They are amphipathic. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which fatty acid is the most abundant unsaturated fatty acid found in animal membrane lipids?

    <p>Oleic acid (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact does the degree of unsaturation in fatty acids have on cell membranes?

    <p>It determines the fluidity of the membranes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a type of glycerophospholipid?

    <p>Cholesterol (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common composition of the nonpolar tails in most membrane lipids?

    <p>Long-chain fatty acids (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of lipid is primarily found in the nervous system tissue?

    <p>Sphingolipids (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are saturated fatty acid groups characterized?

    <p>They consist solely of single bonds. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of the fatty acid groups are typically saturated in membrane lipids?

    <p>50% (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Cell Theory - Main Idea

    All living organisms are made of cells, all cells come from pre-existing cells, and cells contain genetic material for cell function and replication.

    Prokaryotic Cells

    Simple cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Examples are bacteria.

    Eukaryotic Cells

    Complex cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Examples are animal and plant cells.

    Prokaryotic Cell - Features

    Small size, lack of membrane-bound organelles, DNA not enclosed in a nucleus, and no complex proteins called histones.

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    Eukaryotic Cell - Features

    Larger than prokaryotic cells, highly organized internal structure with many membrane-bound organelles, the nucleus houses genetic material, and reproduction involves mitosis and meiosis.

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    Cell - Fundamental Unit

    The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.

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    Cell Theory (point 1)

    Every organism is made of one or more cells.

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    Cell Theory (point 3)

    Cells pass on genetic material to new cells.

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    Eukaryotic cell control center

    The nucleus, which contains most of a cell's DNA, directs cell activities.

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    Nuclear envelope

    A double membrane surrounding the nucleus, separating it from the cytoplasm.

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    Nuclear pore complexes

    Structures in the nuclear envelope that regulate the passage of molecules into and out of the nucleus.

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    Chromatin structure

    DNA in the nucleus tightly coiled into a mass, which is stained darkly.

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    Nucleolus function

    Synthesizes ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and assembles ribosome subunits, a non-membranous organelle.

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    Mitochondrion's role

    The 'powerhouse' of the cell, responsible for generating energy (ATP).

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    Mitochondrion variability

    Mitochondria vary in number, size, and shape depending on the cell type and its metabolic activity.

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    Nucleoplasm Role

    The fluid-like substance inside the nucleus, containing enzymes for DNA/RNA synthesis.

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    Golgi Complex Function

    The Golgi complex sorts, modifies, and packages proteins and lipids produced by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) for transport to their final destinations.

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    Golgi Proximal Compartment

    The receiving side of the Golgi complex, where proteins and lipids from the ER arrive via vesicles.

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    Golgi Medial Compartment

    The middle part of the Golgi complex where proteins are modified and glycosylated (sugars added).

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    Golgi Distal Compartment

    The shipping side of the Golgi complex, where modified proteins are packaged into vesicles for transport to their final destinations.

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    Protein Sorting in Golgi

    The Golgi complex selectively sorts proteins based on signal peptides, sending different proteins to different destinations.

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    Lysosomes

    Cellular organelles containing digestive enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris in cells.

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    Exocytosis

    The process where vesicles fuse with the cell membrane to release their contents outside the cell.

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    Genetic Diseases and Golgi

    Mutations in Golgi proteins can cause defects in membrane trafficking, resulting in diseases like Wilson's disease.

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    Ganglioside Percentage in Brain

    Approximately 6% of the lipids in grey matter brain cells are gangliosides.

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    Cholesterol in Membranes

    Cholesterol is a common membrane component in animal cells but not in plants or prokaryotes. It helps regulate membrane fluidity.

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    Integral Membrane Protein

    These proteins are embedded within the membrane, interacting with its hydrophobic region.

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    Peripheral Membrane Protein

    These proteins are bound to the membrane surface by weaker interactions, such as ionic bonds or hydrogen bonds.

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    Membrane Protein Removal

    Peripheral membrane proteins can be removed without disrupting the membrane structure.

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    Lysosomes: What are they?

    Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in animal cells. They contain enzymes that break down waste products and worn-out cell parts.

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    Lysosomes: Where are they NOT found?

    Lysosomes are absent in red blood cells (erythrocytes).

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    Lysosomes: pH inside vs. outside

    The pH inside lysosomes is acidic (around 5), while the pH of the cytosol is neutral (around 7).

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    Lysosomes: Marker Enzyme

    Acid phosphatase is an enzyme used to identify lysosomes. It is specific to this organelle.

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    Lysosomal Enzymes: Function

    Lysosomal enzymes are essential for breaking down various molecules: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.

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    Autophagy: How does it work?

    Autophagy is a process where lysosomes digest damaged cell parts, like mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum.

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    Cell Death: What happens?

    When a cell dies, lysosomes release their enzymes into the cytoplasm, leading to autolysis (self-digestion).

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    Acrosome: Role in Reproduction

    The acrosome is a specialized lysosome found in sperm. It helps the sperm penetrate the egg during fertilization.

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    Lipids: Membrane Role

    Lipids are the building blocks of cell membranes, forming the structural framework.

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    Lipid Structure

    Lipids have a dual nature: a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail.

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    Amphipathic

    Describing a molecule with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, like lipids.

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    Fatty Acids: Where are They?

    Fatty acids are crucial components of many membrane lipids. They form the nonpolar tails of these molecules.

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    Saturated Fatty Acids

    Fatty acids with no double bonds in their carbon chain. They're straight and tightly packed.

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    Unsaturated Fatty Acids

    Fatty acids with one or more double bonds in their carbon chain. They are bent at the double bond and less packed.

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    Glycerophospholipids

    A type of lipid that forms the cell membrane's backbone, often with phosphatidyl groups.

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    Sphingolipids: Brain Lipids

    Important lipids found in biological membranes, especially in the brain, including myelin sheath.

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    Study Notes

    Cell Structure and Function Overview

    • Cells are the fundamental units of life in all animals, including humans
    • Cells are the building blocks of tissues
    • When cells die, tissues perish and stop functioning

    Cell Theory

    • All organisms are composed of cells
    • All cells come from pre-existing cells
    • Cells contain the genetic information necessary for their functions and reproduction
    • Metabolism encompasses all chemical reactions occurring within cells, including anabolism and catabolism

    Types of Cells

    • Two types of cells exist: prokaryotic and eukaryotic
    • Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller than eukaryotic cells. They lack membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus.
    • Eukaryotic cells are more complex and larger than prokaryotic cells. They possess membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus.

    Prokaryotic Cells Characteristics

    • Minimal internal organization and smaller in size
    • Lack membrane-bound organelles
    • Genetic material (DNA) is not enclosed by a nuclear membrane
    • DNA is not complexed with histones, a protein found in eukaryotic DNA
    • Respiratory system closely associated with the plasma membrane
    • Sexual reproduction does not involve mitosis or meiosis.

    Eukaryotic Cells Characteristics

    • A high degree of internal organization with many internal membrane-bound organelles
    • The nucleus contains the genetic material (DNA) enclosed by a double membrane
    • The genetic material is complexed with proteins called histones
    • Have a specific/well-defined nucleus, mitochondria
    • Sexual reproduction involves both mitosis and meiosis
    • Respiratory site includes the mitochondria

    Cell Organelles: Nucleus

    • The nucleus contains most of a cell's DNA
    • The control center of the eukaryotic cell
    • Nuclear envelope: double membrane structure separating the nucleus from the cytoplasm
    • Nuclear pore complexes: embedded in the nuclear envelope controlling the movement of proteins and nucleic acids (RNAs) across the nuclear envelope
    • Chromatin: DNA in the nucleus coiled into a dense mass
    • Nucleolus: A second dense mass closely associated with the inner nuclear envelope responsible for rRNA synthesis and ribosome subunit assembly
    • Nucleoplasm: The nucleoplasm of the nucleus contains enzymes such as DNA polymerases and RNA polymerases for mRNA and tRNA synthesis

    Cell Organelles: Mitochondria

    • Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell
    • Numerous in some cells, few in others
    • Vary in shape and size
    • Found in virtually all eukaryotic cells
    • The number of mitochondria in a cell varies dramatically; some contain only one, while others can contain thousands
    • Mitochondrial membranes: Outer Mitochondrial membrane: mostly phospholipids and cholesterol, containing the protein Porin. Inner Mitochondrial membrane: highly folded (cristae)
    • Intermembrane space: located between the inner and outer membrane
    • Mitochondrial Matrix: The region enclosed by the inner membrane containing enzymes for the citric acid cycle, fatty acid oxidation, and synthesis of certain proteins
    • DNA in the matrix is partly independent (semi-autonomous)
    • Mitochondria are involved in Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder, where they do not function correctly

    Cell Organelles: Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

    • Extends from the cell membrane, coats the nucleus, and surrounds the mitochondria
    • Involved in protein synthesis, transport, modification, storage, and secretion
    • Rough ER: covered in ribosomes, involved in protein synthesis
    • Smooth ER: lacks ribosomes, involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification

    Cell Organelles: Golgi Complex (Golgi Apparatus)

    • These are unique stacks of smooth compartments in eukaryotic cells, often associated with ER
    • Has a Proximal compartment, Medial compartment, and a Distal compartment
    • Golgi complexes sort and modify proteins for transport within the cell or secretion outside the cell
    • proteins without signaling or transit peptides are rejected

    Cell Organelles: Lysosomes

    • Contain packets of enzymes
    • Involved in cellular digestion (break-down of molecules)
    • Important in autophagy (cell's self-digestion) and in the death (autolysis) of cells
    • Lysosomal enzymes have an optimal pH of around 5

    Cell Organelles: Peroxisomes

    • Small organelles also called Microbodies, present in eukaryotic cells
    • No energy-coupled electron transport systems
    • Involved in oxidation reactions involving hydrogen peroxide; destroyed by catalase enzyme
    • Oxidizing long-chain fatty acids located in liver peroxisomes

    Cell Organelles: Cytoplasm (Cytosol)

    • Simplest structure of the cell
    • Contains organelles-free sap (cytosol)
    • Many metabolic reactions occur in cytosol
    • Contains proteins, ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and free ribosomes (polysome form)
    • Contains necessary substrates and cofactors that interact with various enzymes

    Biological Membranes Structure and Function

    • Plasma membrane, a prototype cell membrane, extensively studied
    • Separates cell contents from the outer environment acting as a barrier and a regulator
    • Has selective permeability, controlling molecule and ion flow
    • Contains surface molecules for cell recognition and communication
    • Eukaryotic cells have internal membrane systems surrounding organelles, assisting their function

    Biological Membranes Chemical Composition

    • Membranes consist of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates
    • Lipids (mostly phospholipids and cholesterol) form the basis of membranes, while proteins are embedded in or associated with them
    • Proteins and carbohydrates are covalently attached to the membrane lipids; lipids are about 40% of the dry weight, proteins 60%, and carbohydrates 1-10%
    • Composition of different membranes can vary significantly

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    Description

    This quiz explores the fundamental principles of cell structure and function, including the cell theory and the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Understand the critical role of cells as the building blocks of life and their importance in biological systems.

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