Cell Structure and Function
Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells:
o Prokaryotic Cells:
Characteristics: Simple, typically smaller than eukaryotic cells, lack a
nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Example: Bacteria and Archaea. Genetic material is in a nucleoid region.
Structure: Cell wall, plasma membrane, ribosomes, and sometimes flagella
for movement.
o Eukaryotic Cells:
Characteristics: More complex, larger, contain a nucleus and organelles.
Examples: Plant and animal cells.
Structure: Organelles include:
Nucleus: Houses DNA and controls cell activities.
Mitochondria: The powerhouse, site of ATP (energy) production.
Ribosomes: Protein synthesis.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Rough ER (with ribosomes)
synthesizes proteins; Smooth ER synthesizes lipids.
Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and
lipids.
Chloroplasts (in plant cells): Site of photosynthesis, contains
chlorophyll.
Functions: Each organelle plays a critical role in maintaining cell health and function.
For example, mitochondria convert glucose into energy through cellular respiration,
while the endoplasmic reticulum synthesizes proteins and lipids essential for cellular
structure and function.
