Cytology: Cell Size Quiz

Key Figures and Concepts in Cell Biology

• Robert Hooke is recognized as the father of Cytology, having made significant contributions to the study of cells.
• The cell is defined as the fundamental structural and functional unit of a living organism, essential for various life processes.

Historical Discoveries

• Anton van Leeuwenhoek discovered the first living cell in the year 1674, using a microscope of his own design.
• The smallest known cell is the Mycoplasma, a type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall.

Cell Theory Fundamentals

• According to cell theory, all organisms are composed of one or more cells, which are the basic building blocks of life.
• Eukaryotic cells are characterized by having a nucleus with well-defined nuclear organization, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells.

Exceptions in Cell Theory

• Striated muscle fibers in skeletal muscle are exceptions to cell theory, as they are multinucleated and can be quite large.

Notable Cell Types

• The neuron is recognized as the longest human cell, extending from the spinal cord to various body parts.
• The largest unicellular plant cell is the giant alga, often referred to as Acetabularia, which can reach several centimeters in length.