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Cells

Cell Basics

Cells are the basic structural and functional units of living organisms.

They are tiny, membrane-bound structures that contain genetic material and carry out various functions necessary for life.

Types of Cells

 Prokaryotic cells (e.g., bacteria): lack a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic cells (e.g., plants, animals): have a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

Cell Components

Plasma membrane: the outermost layer of the cell that separates the cell from its environment

Cytoplasm: the jelly-like substance inside the cell where many metabolic processes take place.

Nucleus: the control center of the cell where DNA is stored.

Mitochondria: the powerhouses of the cell where energy is produced.

Endoplasmic reticulum: a network of membranous tubules involved in protein synthesis and transport.

Ribosomes: small organelles found throughout the cytoplasm where protein synthesis occurs.

Cell Functions

Metabolism: the process of converting energy and nutrients into cellular components.

Growth and development: cells grow, divide, and differentiate to form tissues and organs.

Reproduction: cells divide to produce new cells for growth, repair, or reproduction.

Response to stimuli: cells respond to changes in their environment through signaling pathways.

Dr

The human body contains an estimated 37.2 trillion cells.C

ells can vary greatly in size, shape, and function.

Some cells, like nerve cells, can live for decades, while others, like red blood cells, have a lifespan of only 120 days.


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