Mission MBBS - Biology(cell structure and
function)
Key Terms
Active transportation
Active transportation refers to the movement of molecules across a cell membrane using cellular
energy, such as ATP, against their concentration gradient.
Active transport requires cellular energy in the form of ATP.
Examples of active transport include the sodium-potassium pump and endocytosis.
It is essential for maintaining cell homeostasis and proper function.
Active transportation allows cells to absorb necessary nutrients and expel waste products
efficiently.
Diffusion
Diffusion is a passive transport process where molecules spread from areas of high
concentration to regions of low concentration until they're evenly distributed.
Energy isn't required for diffusion; it's a naturally occurring, spontaneous process.
Diffusion happens in gases and liquids due to the random motion of particles.
Factors like temperature, concentration gradient, size of particles affect the rate of diffusion.
The end goal of diffusion is the achievement of equilibrium in the system.
Endocytosis
Endocytosis is a cellular process where substances are brought inside a cell via vesicles
pinching inwards from the cell membrane.
Two main types: Pinocytosis (cell drinking) and phagocytosis (cell eating).
Helps in uptake of nutrients and removal of unwanted substances.
Involves lipid membrane reshaping, often necessitates energy consumption.
Not all cells have the capacity for endocytosis.
Exocytosis
Exocytosis is a cellular process that allows cells to expel waste materials or secrete substances
enclosed in vesicles out towards the extracellular environment.
Often involved in protein secretion pathway.
Used when cells are signaling each other during communication.
Involves vesicles fusing with the plasma membrane.
Active process requiring energy.
Facilitated diffusion
Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport where substances move across cell
membranes through protein channels or carrier molecules.
This process does not require any energy input.
It is used for substances that cannot pass through the lipid bilayer.
It is regulated by the concentration gradient.
Examples include the diffusion of glucose or amino acids into a cell.
Filtration
Filtration is a process in living organisms that involves the separation and removal of solid
particles or impurities from a fluid or substance.
Filtration is an important process in the urinary system as it helps to remove waste products
from the blood.
In the respiratory system, filtration occurs in the nasal passages to remove dust and other
particles from the air we breathe.
The kidney is a major organ involved in filtration, where blood is filtered to remove waste
products and excess water.
Filtration is also used in industrial processes such as water treatment, where it helps to
remove impurities and contaminants.
Glycocalyx
Glycocalyx is a layer of carbohydrates that covers the external surface of cells. It has various
functions including cell recognition and protection against physical and chemical damage.
Glycocalyx can vary in thickness and composition, depending on the cell type and
environment.
The carbohydrate molecules in glycocalyx can be attached to proteins (forming
glycoproteins) or lipids (forming glycolipids).
Glycocalyx helps prevent the adhesion of pathogens to the cell surface, contributing to the
body's immune defense.
Glycocalyx also plays a role in cell-cell communication and signaling processes.
Homeostatic control center
The homeostatic control center is a regulatory mechanism in living organisms that maintains
internal stability by responding to changes in the environment.
It includes structures like the brain and endocrine glands.
Sensory receptors detect deviations from the set point.
Effector organs adjust to bring conditions back to the optimal range.
Examples include the hypothalamus regulating body temperature.
Osmosis
Osmosis is a process facilitating the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable
membrane from a low solute concentration to a high solute concentration.
Osmosis equalizes solute concentrations on either side of a membrane.
This movement continues until equilibrium is reached.
Osmosis is vital for fluid balance in cells.
It plays a crucial role in nutrient and waste transport in organisms.
Passive transportation
Passive transportation involves the movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the
use of energy, typically through diffusion.
Diffusion is the main mechanism of passive transport, where molecules move from areas of
high concentration to low concentration.
Passive transport does not require energy input from the cell.
Osmosis is a type of passive transport specific to water molecules moving across a
selectively permeable membrane.
Facilitated diffusion involves the use of protein channels to facilitate the movement of
specific molecules across the membrane.
Phospholipids
Phospholipids are a class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes. They can
form lipid bilayers because of their amphiphilic characteristic.
They consist of a glycerol molecule, two fatty acids, and a phosphate group.
The amphiphilic nature arises from the hydrophilic 'head' and hydrophobic 'tails'.
Phospholipids provide a barrier in cellular membranes to protect the cell.
They also play a role in signal transmission and lipid transport.
Plasma membrane
The plasma membrane, often referred to as the cell membrane, is a crucial component of a cell
that acts as a barrier, controlling the entry and exit of substances.
Composed mainly of phospholipids, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Separates cell's interior from external environment.
Plays key role in cellular communication.
Assists in maintaining the cell's shape and overall homeostasis.
