organization of cells Flashcards
(114 cards)
How is mitochondrial DNA inherited?
Mitochondrial DNA is inherited only from the mother through maternal inheritance.
What are the two main stages of cellular respiration that occur in mitochondria?
The Krebs cycle (in the matrix) and the electron transport chain (on the inner membrane).
Why is the plasma membrane called a “fluid” mosaic?
It is called “fluid” because the molecules, such as lipids and proteins, can move freely past one another within the membrane.
What role do vacuoles play in plant cells?
Vacuoles maintain proper internal pressure to provide support and structure for growing plant cells
What process involves the breakdown of damaged organelles by lysosomes?
This process is called autophagy.
How is illumination provided in Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)?
Illumination is provided by an electron beam produced by a heated tungsten filament.
What is the key structural difference between the smooth ER and the rough ER?
The smooth ER lacks ribosomes on its surface, while the rough ER has ribosomes attached to its membrane
What is the primary function of chloroplasts?
Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
What does the ribosome do with mRNA?
The ribosome moves along the mRNA, translating the genetic message into a protein.
How does the smooth ER help in detoxification?
the smooth ER helps liver cells detoxify circulating drugs by modifying harmful substances, making them easier for the body to eliminate.
What roles do proteins play in the plasma membrane?
Proteins in the plasma membrane regulate traffic (e.g., transport proteins), assist in signal reception (receptor proteins), and provide structural support and cell recognition.
What are the two main parts of a mitochondrion?
The outer membrane and the inner membrane, which is folded into structures called cristae.
What is the tonoplast?
The tonoplast is the membrane surrounding the vacuole in plant cells, regulating the movement of materials in and out of the vacuole.
How do vacuoles contribute to cellular function?
Vacuoles store water, nutrients, and waste products, and help maintain turgor pressure in plant cells.
What advantage does the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) have over TEM?
SEM provides great depth of focus and creates 3D images of specimens’ surfaces.
What are the two stages of photosynthesis that occur in chloroplasts?
The light-dependent reactions (produce ATP and NADPH) and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle, convert CO2 into glucose).
What pigment is found in chloroplasts that helps with photosynthesis?
Chlorophyll is the pigment that absorbs light for photosynthesis.
How does a Light Microscope (LM) achieve magnification?
Magnification is achieved by the objective lens and ocular (eyepiece) lenses, with illumination provided by light
Why do plants appear green?
Plants appear green because chlorophyll reflects green light and absorbs other wavelengths, especially blue and red.
How do proteins from the rough ER reach other parts of the cell?
Transport vesicles bud off from the rough ER and carry proteins to other locations, such as the Golgi apparatus.
What are the three main types of RNA involved in protein synthesis?
mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA.
What is the function of the nuclear envelope?
It separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm and contains pores to regulate material exchange.
What is the structure of microtubules and their role?
Microtubules are hollow tubes made of tubulin proteins that help guide the movement of organelles and chromosomes during cell division.
What is the extracellular matrix (ECM) of animal cells made up of?
The ECM is composed of glycoproteins such as collagen, proteoglycans, and fibronectin.