Chapter 3: Cells and Tissues Anatomy

Function of the Nucleus

• Acts as the control center of the cell, housing genetic material (DNA).
• Regulates gene expression and mediates the replication of DNA during the cell cycle.

Ribosome Production Structure

• The nucleolus is responsible for synthesizing and assembling ribosomes within the nucleus.

Nuclear Membrane Function

• Serves as a barrier that separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm, regulating the exchange of substances through nuclear pores.

Location of Genetic Material

• DNA is located within the nucleus, organized into chromatin and chromosomes.

Composition of Tissues

• Tissues are formed from groups of specialized cells that perform specific functions.

Classification of Cells

• Cells are considered the basic structural and functional units of life, capable of carrying out all necessary life processes.

Location of Chromatin

• Chromatin is found within the nucleus, playing a role in packaging DNA and regulating gene expression.

Function of Microvilli

• Microvilli increase the surface area of the cell, enhancing absorption and secretion by providing more space for cellular processes.

Main Function of Ribosomes

• Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains.

Location of Free Ribosomes

• Free ribosomes are found floating in the cytoplasm, synthesizing proteins that function within the cell itself.

Function of Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

• The SER is involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification of harmful metabolic byproducts, and calcium ion storage.

Function of Golgi Apparatus

• The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Location of Lysosomes

• Lysosomes are primarily located in the cytoplasm, containing digestive enzymes that break down macromolecules and cellular waste.

Function of Peroxisomes

• Peroxisomes detoxify harmful substances, metabolize fatty acids, and generate hydrogen peroxide, which is then converted to water.

Function of Desmosomes

• Desmosomes anchor adjacent cells together, providing structural integrity to tissues and enabling communication between cells.

Role of Gap Junctions

• Gap junctions facilitate direct communication between neighboring cells, allowing ions and small molecules to pass through, aiding in coordinated cellular activity.

Test your knowledge of the anatomy of cells and tissues with this quiz. Explore the structures and functions of cells, as well as the organization of different cell regions such as the nucleus, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane.