Cell Biology: Organelles, Molecules, and Metabolism
Cellular Components and Functions
- Vacuole: An organelle in plant cells for water storage, secretion, and waste.
- Eukaryotic Cell: Contains genetic material enclosed by a nuclear membrane and membranous organelles.
- Prokaryotic Cell: Hereditary material dispersed in the cytoplasm, lacking membranous organelles.
Cell Theory
The cell is the structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
Organelles
- Membranous Organelle: Cell structure with one or two membranes, fulfilling specific functions.
- Nucleus: Organelle surrounded by a double membrane, storing and regulating genetic material expression.
- Non-membranous Organelle: Formed by macromolecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates), participating in specific functions.
Molecules in Cells
- Inorganic Molecules: Water, minerals, and gases involved in metabolic reactions.
- Organic Molecules: Substances with carbon and hydrogen, often with oxygen and nitrogen.
- Protein Molecules: Crucial for body functioning.
- Nucleic Acids: Molecules of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus, related to genetic information storage and expression.
- Lipids: Nonpolar molecules, insoluble in water.
Cellular Processes
- Cell Membrane: More liquid than solid, allowing components to move freely.
- Enzymes: Facilitate reactions necessary for life by reducing the time required.
- Cell Metabolism: Chemical reactions transforming substances within the cell.
- Nucleic Acids: Molecules storing and regulating genetic information.
- Biomolecules: Molecules that make up living organisms.
- Bioelements: Elements that make up living things.
Metabolism and Body Functions
- Vitamins and their Functions: Lack of vitamins can cause diseases.
- Body Metabolism: Sum of metabolic reactions in all body cells.
- Basal Metabolism: Minimum energy expenditure to maintain physiological processes.
- Body Mass and Metabolism: Body mass depends on the balance between energy intake and expenditure.
- Key Organ and Tissue Metabolism: Organ removal can affect metabolism.
- Vital Organs: Every cell expends ATP for activities.
- Liver: Performs around 100 different processes.