Cell Theory Overview

Study Notes

Cell Theory

Cell theory is the accepted scientific explanation for how most life on Earth functions; it refutes spontaneous generation.
Spontaneous generation is an outdated theory proposing living organisms can arise from non-living matter.
Robert Hooke first observed and described cells in 1665 while examining cork.
He named them "cells" due to their resemblance to small compartments.
Living organisms can be either unicellular (e.g., amoeba) or multicellular (e.g., plants, animals, humans).
Cells are the fundamental building blocks of life.
Cell theory, formulated in 1839, is primarily attributed to Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann, and Rudolph Virchow.
Cell theory tenets include:
- All living organisms are composed of cells.
- Cells are the fundamental structural and organizational units of living organisms.
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Components of a cell

Cells have a semi-permeable membrane, composed of phospholipids.
The membrane encloses the cytosol, a liquid containing water, salts, and other solutes.
Organelles are suspended in the cytosol and carry out specific cell functions.
All cells contain DNA, the genetic material, which encodes information for vital life processes (energy production, reproduction, movement, excretion, etc.).

Unicellular vs. Multicellular Organisms

Unicellular organisms consist of a single cell that performs all life functions independently.
Multicellular organisms are comprised of millions of cells working cooperatively.
Mitosis is the cell division process creating identical cells in multicellular organisms.
These identical cells differentiate into various tissues and organs based on signals they receive.

Cell Theory Tenants Explained

All living things are composed of cells — a fundamental biological principle applicable to all, from simple to complex organisms.
Cells are the basic structural and functional units in all living things. In multicellular organisms, cells form tissues, tissues form organs, and organs form organ systems.
Cells only arise from other pre-existing cells. This principle explains the continuity and evolution of life.

Viruses and Cell Theory

Scientists debate whether viruses are living organisms, as they lack certain characteristics of cells.

Summary

Cell theory provides a foundational understanding of life's structure and origin.
It emphasizes the cell as the fundamental unit of life and the role of cell division in growth, development, and reproduction.

Description

Explore the fundamentals of cell theory, including its historical background and essential principles. Learn about the contributions of scientists like Robert Hooke, Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann, and Rudolph Virchow. Understand why cells are considered the building blocks of life and how this theory contrasts with spontaneous generation.