Concept Map of Cellular Structures

Concept Map of Cellular Structures

1. Microtubules

   • Structure
     • Long and hollow cylinders that consist of subunits of the protein tubulin.
   • Function
     • They form a dynamic scaffolding for cellular processes. They assemble when needed and disassemble when not needed.

2. Plasma Membrane

   • Structure
     • Membrane that encloses the cell which is composed of a bilayer of proteins.
   • Function
     • Selectively controls the kinds and amounts of substances moving in and out of the cell. (selectively permeable)

3. Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

   • Structure
     • Structure differs among groups but it is in most cases a wall.
   • Function
     • Protects, supports, and imparts shapes of the cell.

4. Intermediate Filaments

   • Structure
     • Fibrous proteins (lamina) coiled together.
   • Function
     • Stable cytoskeletal element that supports cells and tissues.

5. Microfilaments

   • Structure
     • Fibers that consist of subunits of actin.
   • Function
     • Strengthen or change the shape of eukaryotic cells.

6. Lysosomes

   • Structure
     • Compartments/vessels for waste disposal and recycling.
   • Function
     • Digests and recycles materials.

7. Cell junctions

   • Structure
     • Sites of physical contact between cells.
   • Function
     • Connect cells to other cells and the environment.

8. Nucleus

   • Structure
     • An organelle with a double membrane.
   • Function
     • Houses the genetic information of the cell. (DNA)

9. Nuclear envelope

   • Structure
     • Two lipid bilayers folded together in a single membrane.
   • Function
     • Controlling which substances can cross to the nucleus. Basically the membrane of the nucleus.

10. Chloroplasts

    • Function
      • Organelle that sparks photosynthesis in the cells of plants.
    • Structure
      • Oval or disc shaped plastids specialized for photosynthesis.

11. Mitochondria

    • Structure
      • An oval shaped organelle with a double membrane.
    • Function
      • Eukaryotic organelle that specialises in making ATP.

12. Rough ER

    • Structure
      • Bound ribosomes.
    • Function
      • Transports carbohydrates and proteins to different parts of the cell

13. Smooth ER

    • Structure
      • No bound ribosomes.
    • Function
      • Carries enzymes that break down carbohydrates, lipids, toxins, and waste.

14. Golgi Apparatus

    • Structure
      • Flat disks called cisternae.
    • Function
      • Modifies proteins to send them to the ER.

15. Ribosomes

    • Structure
      • Two subunits made of RNA and proteins.
    • Function
      • Organelle where proteins are synthesized