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The human cell - 101
The Human Cell 101 - Simple to understand
Cell parts
Differing in size, shape, and function, the cell
is the smallest functional unit of tissues and organs.
Each cell is somewhat self-contained and self-maintaining:
It can take
in nutrients, convert these nutrients into energy, carry out specialized functions,
and reproduce
Human cells have a surrounding protective membrane.
Enclosing a salty, watery cytoplasm in which is floating a set of membrane-bound
organelles ("little organs"), which perform a number of vital functions for the
cell.
For example:
The
cell nucleus. Houses DNA - the cell's genetic blueprint containing
the building instructions for various protein molecules, such as enzymes;
The
mitochondrion. The cell's "Power Plant"
The
endoplasmic reticulum.
The transport network for active molecules;
Ribosome.
Primary site of protein synthesis
The
Golgi complex/apparatus.
The cell's central delivery system and a site for protein
processing, packaging, and transport.
Lysosome.
Contains enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris
Centriole.
Two per cell; help with mitosis and meisosis when cell divides.
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