Definitions [2]
Define a Prokaryotic cell.
A prokaryotic cell is a simple, single-celled organism that lacks a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Its genetic material is located in the nucleoid region of the cytoplasm.
Examples: Bacteria and Archaea.
Define the following:
Toxin
Toxin:
The poisonous substances secreted by pathogens that cause diseases are called toxins.
Key Points
Key Points: Cell
- All living organisms are made up of cells, the basic units of life.
- Cells carry out vital functions necessary for the survival and activity of an organism.
- Organisms typically begin as a single cell, which multiplies through repeated divisions.
- Cells differentiate to perform specific roles, such as support, secretion, and other life functions.
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells and share similar chemical composition and metabolic processes.
Key Points: Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
- ER is a network of double-membraned tubules that extend between the plasma and nuclear membranes.
- It occurs in two forms: Rough ER (RER) with ribosomes and Smooth ER (SER) without ribosomes.
- RER is involved in protein synthesis and transport because it contains attached ribosomes.
- SER is responsible for fat (lipid) synthesis and transport.
- ER provides a supportive internal framework within the cell.
Key Points: Golgi Apparatus
- The Golgi apparatus, also called dictyosomes in plant cells, is found as stacks of flattened membrane sacs.
- It consists of cisternae, vesicles, and vacuoles.
- Involved in the synthesis and secretion of enzymes, hormones, and other substances.
- Plays a role in the packaging and transport of cellular products.
- In animal cells, it helps form the acrosome of sperm cells.
Key Points: Lysosomes
- Lysosomes are membranous sacs formed from the Golgi body.
- They contain around 40 different types of digestive enzymes.
- Responsible for intracellular digestion and destruction of foreign substances.
- Help break down worn-out organelles—hence known as "suicide bags".
- Aid in digesting cartilage during bone formation.
Key Points: Mitochondria
- Mitochondria are double-walled organelles, usually sausage-shaped, with inner folds called cristae.
- They have their own DNA and ribosomes, enabling some self-functioning.
- Known as the powerhouse of the cell, they produce ATP through aerobic respiration.
- Responsible for the release of energy from pyruvic acid formed in the cytoplasm.
- Involved in the synthesis of respiratory enzymes.
Key Points: Vacuoles & Granules
- Vacuoles are clear spaces containing water or dissolved substances, enclosed by a membrane called the tonoplast.
- Plant cells have fewer but larger vacuoles, while animal cells have smaller ones.
- Vacuoles store water, food, pigments, and waste, and help maintain cell turgidity.
- Some vacuoles contain pigments like anthocyanins (violet-blue).
- Granules are non-living particles (starch, glycogen, fats) that serve as food reserves for the cell.
Key Points: Plastids
- Plastids are present only in plant cells and are of several types—chloroplasts, leucoplasts, and chromoplasts.
- They are double-membraned organelles with a proteinaceous matrix and contain DNA.
- Chloroplasts (green) contain chlorophyll in thylakoids and perform photosynthesis.
- Leucoplasts are colourless, store starch, and have no pigment.
- Chromoplasts are variously coloured, contain pigments like xanthophyll and carotene, and help in pollination by attracting pollinators.
Concepts [13]
- Cell: Structural and Functional Unit of Life
- Measurement and observation of cells
- Plant Cell Vs Animal Cell
- Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
- Golgi Apparatus - "The delivery system of the cell"
- Lysosome - “Suicidal Bag”
- Mitochondria - “Power House of the Cell”
- Non-living Substances Or Cell Inclusion
- Plastids
- Microorganisms (Microbes) and Microbiology
- Useful micro-organisms
- Harmful Microorganisms
- Pathogens
