Topic: Cell Structure and Function
Date: August 23, 2024
Key Points:
Overview of Cell Theory:
Cell Theory Principles:
All living organisms are composed of cells.
The cell is the basic unit of life.
All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Types of Cells:
Prokaryotic Cells:
Characteristics: Lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Example: Bacteria.
Components: Cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, nucleoid (region where DNA is
located), sometimes cell wall, and flagella or pili.
Eukaryotic Cells:
Characteristics: Contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Examples: Plant
and animal cells.
Components:
Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.
Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell; produces energy (ATP) through cellular
respiration.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Rough ER (with ribosomes) synthesizes proteins; Smooth
ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies substances.
Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport.
Lysosomes: Contain digestive enzymes to break down waste materials.
Cytoskeleton: Provides structural support and facilitates movement.
Cell Membrane: Regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Comparing Plant and Animal Cells:
Plant Cells:
Additional Structures: Cell wall (provides rigidity), chloroplasts (site of
photosynthesis), and a large central vacuole (maintains turgor pressure).
Animal Cells:
Additional Structures: Centrioles (involved in cell division) and smaller, multiple
vacuoles.
Cell Membrane Structure:
Phospholipid Bilayer: Composed of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.
Membrane Proteins: Embedded proteins facilitate transport, signaling, and
structural support.
Fluid Mosaic Model: Describes the flexible, semi-fluid nature of the membrane and
the movement of proteins and lipids within it.
Cell Functions and Processes:
Cell Division: Includes mitosis (for growth and repair) and meiosis (for
reproduction).
Transport Mechanisms:
Passive Transport: Movement of substances without energy (e.g., diffusion,
osmosis).
Active Transport: Movement of substances against a concentration gradient,
requiring energy (e.g., sodium-potassium pump).
Upcoming Laboratory Activity:
Activity: Microscopic Examination of Cell Types
Objective: Observe and compare the structure of plant and animal cells under the
microscope.
Materials: Microscopes, prepared slides of plant (onion) and animal (cheek) cells,
staining solutions.
Instructions: Prepare slides, use appropriate magnification to identify cell
structures, and document observations.
Homework Assignment:
Task: Create a detailed diagram of a plant and an animal cell, labeling all key
organelles and structures. Write a brief description of each organelle’s function.
Due Date: August 30, 2024
Submission: Submit diagrams and descriptions via the class portal.
Reminder: Review Chapter 2 of the textbook on cell structure and function. Be
prepared to discuss the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells in the
next class.
