Animal Cell

Animal Cell

Cytoplasm

Nucleus

What is an Animal Cell?

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Cell Membrane

Lysosomes

10

Endoplasmic Reticulum

Golgi Apparatus

Centrioles

Vacuole

By Renata Caceres7th Grade Room 11 Junior high school.

cytoskeleton

Mitochondria

Nucleus

In animal cells, the nucleus is often referred to as the "control center" of the cell. It is a membrane-bound organelle that contains most of the cell's genetic material (DNA). Here are its key features and functions:

Functions:

Genetic Information Storage: The nucleus houses DNA, which contains the instructions needed for the cell’s growth, development, and reproduction. Ribosome Production: The nucleolus, found within the nucleus, is where ribosomes are assembled. Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis. Regulating Cell Activities: The nucleus controls various cellular processes by regulating gene expression, determining which proteins are made and when.

Structure:

1. The nucleus is surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope, which has pores that allow substances to move in and out.
2. Inside the nucleus, there is a gel-like substance called nucleoplasm, and it contains structures like the nucleolus.

Cytoplasm

In animal cells, cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance that fills the space between the cell membrane and the nucleus. It consists mostly of water, salts, and proteins, and it holds all the cell's organelles in place.

The cytoplasm has several important functions:

1. Support: It helps maintain the shape of the cell and supports the organelles.
2. Site of chemical reactions: Many vital biochemical processes, such as glycolysis (energy production), take place in the cytoplasm.
3. Transport: It allows the movement of materials, like nutrients and waste, within the cell.

Animal Cell

An animal cell is the basic building block of all animals, including humans. It’s really tiny and you can only see it with a microscope. Inside the cell, there are different parts called organelles, each with a specific job to keep the cell working properly.

Animal cells don’t have a cell wall or chloroplasts like plant cells do, so they’re more flexible. All animals are made of these cells!They are eukaryotic cells with relatively large cells.

The golgi apparatus

The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi body or Golgi complex, is an organelle found in animal cells. Its main function is to process, modify, package, and distribute proteins and lipids that are synthesized by the cell. It acts like a post office, receiving molecules from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), modifying them (e.g., by adding sugar molecules to form glycoproteins), and then packaging them into vesicles for transport to their final destinations, either inside or outside the cell

In animal cells, the Golgi apparatus is especially important in processes like protein secretion, membrane production, and lysosome formation. It is usually made up of flattened, stacked pouches called cisternae.

Lysosomes

Here are their key functions:Digestion of Waste:

• Lysosomes break down large molecules, old or damaged organelles, and other debris into smaller components that the cell can reuse or dispose of.
• Defense: Lysosomes help protect the cell by breaking down harmful bacteria or viruses that enter the cell.
• Autophagy: This is the process by which lysosomes help digest and recycle the cell’s own damaged or unnecessary parts, allowing the cell to maintain health and efficiency.

Lysosomes are small, membrane-bound organelles that act as the cell’s "recycling center" or "waste disposal system." They contain enzymes that break down and digest unwanted materials, such as damaged cell parts, waste products, and foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses.

Centrioles

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Centrioles are cylindrical structures in animal cells that help with cell division. They organize the mitotic spindle, which separates chromosomes during mitosis and meiosis. Centrioles are also involved in forming cilia and flagella for cell movement. While important in animal cells, they are not found in plant cells.

Mitcochondria

Mitochondria are known as the "powerhouses" of animal cells because they generate most of the cell's energy. They produce energy in the form of a molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through a process known as cellular respiration, which involves breaking down nutrients like glucose and oxygen. Mitochondria have two membranes: an outer membrane that protects the organelle and an inner membrane that is folded into structures called cristae, where energy production takes place. They also contain their own DNA, allowing them to replicate independently of the cell. In summary, mitochondria are essential for energy production in animal cells and are critical for powering various cellular functions.

Cytoskeleton

he cytoskeleton in animal cells is a network of protein fibers that provides structural support, helps maintain the cell’s shape, and facilitates movement. It also plays key roles in cell division, intracellular transport, and the organization of organelles within the cell. There are three main components of the cytoskeleton: Microfilaments (actin filaments) – These are thin filaments that support the cell’s shape and help with movement, especially in processes like muscle contraction and cell division. Intermediate filaments – These provide mechanical strength and help maintain the cell's structural integrity. Microtubules – These are larger, hollow tubes that act as tracks for the movement of organelles and vesicles within the cell. They also form the mitotic spindle during cell division

Vacuoles

In animal cells, vacuoles are small, membrane-bound organelles that store various substances such as water, nutrients, waste products, and enzymes. They help regulate the internal environment of the cell by managing storage, waste disposal, and maintaining osmotic balance (the balance of water inside and outside the cell). Unlike plant cells, which typically have a large central vacuole, animal cells have smaller and more numerous vacuoles. Their size and function can vary depending on the type of cell and its needs. In short, vacuoles in animal cells store materials and help with waste management and maintaining cell stability.

Endoplasmic reticulum

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in animal cells is a network of membrane-bound tubules and sacs that play key roles in the production, folding, and transport of proteins and lipids. There are two types of ER: Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) – This type has ribosomes attached to its surface, giving it a "rough" appearance. It is involved in synthesizing and processing proteins, especially those that are destined for secretion, insertion into the cell membrane, or use in lysosomes. Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) – Lacking ribosomes, the smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification of harmful substances, and storage of calcium ions. It also helps with the metabolism of carbohydrates.

The Cell Membrane

The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is a thin, flexible barrier that surrounds animal cells. It controls what enters and exits the cell, maintaining the internal environment and protecting the cell's contents. The membrane is made up of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins, which helps in various functions like transport, communication, and signaling.Key roles of the cell membrane include: Regulating movement of substances such as nutrients, waste products, and ions in and out of the cell. Providing protection by acting as a barrier between the cell’s interior and the external environment. Facilitating communication with other cells through protein receptors on its surface.