Day 2: Cell Organelles

Most cells have these parts 

(From learn.genetics.utah.edu)

Focus on the bolded parts

Cell membrane or plasma membrane

protective barrier that controls what gets into and out of the cell

helps cells communicate with each other

Nucleus

stores heritable genetic information with long DNA molecules

copies genes to make messages for the cell

Cytoskeleton

long fibers that give the cell structure

Mitochondria

kidney-shaped or long organelles that release energy so the cell can do work

striped appearance due to two layers of membranes folded inside

Vesicles

small containers that carry materials around the cell and to the membrane for release outside

Ribosomes

tiny dot-like structures that read messages from the nucleus to build protein (shown in purple)

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)

two types: rough (with dots) has ribosomes which make protein

smooth (no dots) makes lipids and hormones

Golgi apparatus

Cell post office that moves proteins from the ER through the stacked compartments and tags where they need to go

Lysosome

small package filled with digestive enzymes that clean up the cell and recycles parts

lysis means to break apart

Chloroplasts

layered green structures in plants and some algae that perform photosynthesis

Cell wall

plants, fungi and bacteria cells have a tough outer coating to provide support and defense

Vacuole

some plant and animal cells have a large central vacuole that stores fluid

in plants this stores water, color, and perfume and keeps the plant plumped up

in animals this stores oil in fat cells