Cell Components and Functions of Cell Organelles

A Cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of the body. Which is the Basis of all the functions of the body.

A Cell is made up of majorly 2 components:

1. Central nucleus surrounded by Nuclear membrane
2. Cytoplasm covered by Plasma membrane containing Cytoplasmic Organelles

Cell components and their Functions:

Plasma Membrane:

• Main function is Protection
• Prevents entry of harmful Substances holds cell together
• Transport of Metabolites cell to cell recognition and communication
• Plays an major role in Immune response
• Involved in Hormonal Action
• Helps in Conduction of Action potential

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):

• Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum – Protein Synthesis
• Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum – Steroid and Lipid Synthesis

Ribosomes:

• It plays a major role n the terminal parts of Protein Synthesis

Golgi complex or Golgi apparatus:

• Stores Secretions
• Modifies Secretions
• Packages Secretions

Mitochondria:

• It is termed as the power house of the Cell
• Plays an major part in the terminal stages of Aerobic Respiration
• Synthesizes ATP – hence called the power house of cell as ATP is the primary source of Energy
• Manufactures Polysaccharides

Pinocytotic Vesicles:

• Uptake of Dissolved Materials

Lysosomes:

• These are termed as the “Disposal Units” of the cell
• Contains Hydrolytic Enzymes which Digest materials
• They are the organelles which are the center of “Autolysis” or Intracellular Breakdown.

Centrioles:

• Help in Division of Cells
• During Cell division they separate and move to form the poles of the nuclear spindle

Micro Tubules:

• Are the main organelles which help in movement and Support of the Cell
• Beating of Sperm Tail or Cilia
• Movement of Chromosomes in cell division

Micro Filaments:

• Also play part in Movement and Support
• They help in General Floating motion of Cytoplasm (Cytoplasmic Streaming)
• Contraction of Muscle Fibers
• Microvilli

Nucleus:

Nuclear Membrane: Pores in the membrane serve as Transport Channels Site of Synthesis of RNA and DNA

Nucleoli and Chromatin Material: The information required to synthesize proteins is coded in the DNA. The DNA is copied into “Messenger RNA” molecules. These pass into the cytoplasm where the protein synthesis takes place.