Cell Transport Mechanisms

Cell Transport Mechanisms

• Transport mechanisms are the pathways and processes cells use to move substances.
• The cell membrane acts as a boundary between the internal and external environments.
• Passive transport doesn't require energy; it relies on concentration gradients.
• Simple diffusion involves movement of ions and molecules from high to low concentration.
• Facilitated diffusion uses ion channels to help charged ions move across.
• Osmosis is the movement of water across a membrane.
• Tonicity is the difference in osmotic concentration leading to water movement.
• Aquaporins are channels for rapid water movement across cell membranes.
• Active transport uses cellular energy.
• Endocytosis is a process where cells take in substances by engulfing them in a vesicle.
• Pinocytosis involves taking in fluids and solutes.
• Phagocytosis involves taking in larger substances.
• Exocytosis is the release of substances from inside the cell to the outside environment.

Biochemistry and Related Concepts

• Biochemistry studies chemical processes in living organisms.
• Structural biology examines the 3D structures of biological molecules (carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids).
• Enzymology focuses on how enzymes function.
• Metabolism is the sum of chemical reactions that convert food into energy.
• Carbon is a major component of organic compounds.
• Hydrogen is an important fuel source for energy production.
• Oxygen is a vital part of water molecules and organic compounds.
• Nitrogen is an essential element in proteins.

Important Chemical Components

• Phosphorus is a major component of nucleic acids and high-energy compounds.
• Sulfur is found in amino acids and vitamins.
• Iodine helps regulate body temperature.
• Molybdenum is important for nitrogen incorporation in plants.
• Chromium is part of the insulin receptor.
• Selenium prevents the deterioration of certain compounds.
• Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter.
• Elements are pure substances composed of a single type of atom.
• Compounds are substances made of multiple different types of atoms.
• Ionic bonds form between ions with opposite charges.
• Covalent bonds involve atoms sharing electrons.
• Acids release hydrogen ions in solution and typically have a sour taste.
• Bases accept hydrogen ions and can be slippery and have a bitter taste.
• Buffers help maintain a stable pH in solutions.
• Electrolytes are substances that release ions in solutions; they're crucial for cell function.
• Bicarbonate helps regulate heart function.
• Calcium is a component of bones and teeth.
• Chloride helps maintain water balance.
• Magnesium is important for nerve and muscle function and the immune system.
• Potassium aids in electrical impulses in the body.
• Sodium helps with electrical signaling and water regulation.