Cytology: Cell Structure and Function

Cytology Learning Outcomes

• Cells are the fundamental units of life, composed of various components
• Plasma membrane regulates substance entry/exit
• Cytoplasm is a gel-like substance where metabolic processes occur
• Nucleus contains DNA, controlling cellular functions
• Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, producing ATP
• Endoplasmic reticulum (both rough and smooth) are involved in protein and lipid synthesis
• Golgi apparatus modifies, packages, and transports proteins
• Lysosomes digest waste and pathogens
• Centrosomes organize microtubules, vital for cell division
• Cytoskeleton provides structure, aiding transport and movement

Cell Structure and Function

• Plasma membrane encloses the cell, controlling transport
• Nucleus stores genetic material, directing cellular functions
• Mitochondria generate ATP, the cell's energy source
• Ribosomes synthesize proteins
• Golgi apparatus packages proteins for transport
• Lysosomes break down cellular waste and debris
• Cytoskeleton provides structural support and enables movement

Cell Division

• Mitosis produces two identical daughter cells, crucial for growth and repair
• Mitosis phases include interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis
• Meiosis creates four genetically diverse haploid cells, essential for sexual reproduction
• Meiosis is characterized by two rounds of division

Cell Growth Abnormalities

• Hyperplasia involves excessive cell growth
• Hypoplasia refers to underdevelopment or reduced cell number
• Atrophy is cell shrinkage due to disuse or disease
• Hypertrophy is an increase in cell size
• Dysplasia is abnormal cell growth, potentially precancerous
• Neoplasia involves uncontrolled cell growth, resulting in tumors (benign or malignant)

Cell Structure Diagram Summary

• Diagram shows the detailed internal components of a typical animal cell
• Labels like Rough ER, Smooth ER, Golgi, Mitochondria, Lysosomes, Nucleus & Ribosomes are shown.
• The membrane and cytoplasm are also key parts of the diagram

Active and Passive Transport

• Osmosis is water movement across a semi-permeable membrane from high to low concentration
• Active transport moves substances against a concentration gradient, using energy
• Passive transport moves substances down a concentration gradient, requiring no energy

Test your knowledge on the fundamental units of life with this quiz focused on cytology. Explore key components such as the plasma membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, and other essential organelles that contribute to cellular processes. Perfect for biology students looking to deepen their understanding of cell function.