types of cells + structure

• Cells


  Contain a variety of organelles that carry out specialized functions within the cell. Not all cell types contain every type of organelle.
• Cell Components


  • Plasma/cell membrane
  • Mitochondria
  • Golgi apparatus
  • Smooth & Rough endoplasmic reticulum
  • Lysosome
  • Nucleus
  • Centrioles
  • Chloroplast
  • Cell Wall
• Plasma/cell membrane


  • Gives the cell shape and protection. Regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.
• Mitochondria


  • Powerhouse of cell
• Golgi apparatus


  • Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids synthesized within the cell. Receives proteins and lipids from the endoplasmic reticulum, where they undergo further processing, including glycosylation and sorting into vesicles. Directs these molecules to their final destinations, such as secretion from the cell, incorporation into cellular membranes, or delivery to specific organelles. Participates in the synthesis of complex carbohydrates and the formation of lysosomes for intracellular digestion.
• Smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER)


  • Responsible for making fats, managing carbohydrates, and detoxifying harmful substances. Stores calcium ions important for cell signaling.
• Rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER)


  • Primary function is protein synthesis and processing. Ribosomes attached to the rough ER synthesize proteins that are destined for secretion, incorporation into cellular membranes, or delivery to other organelles. Plays a role in quality control, ensuring that properly folded proteins are transported to their correct destinations within the cell while misfolded proteins are targeted for degradation.
• Lysosome


  • Acts as the cell's recycling center, breaking down waste materials, damaged organelles, and unwanted substances. Contains special enzymes that dismantle these materials into smaller, reusable parts, helping keep the cell clean and functioning smoothly. Also plays roles in cellular maintenance and signaling, contributing to overall cell health and balance.
• Nucleus


  • Acts as the cell's control center, holding its genetic instructions. Manages cell activities, including growth, reproduction, and protein production. During cell division, ensures that each new cell receives the correct amount of genetic material.
• Centrioles


  • Help organize cell division by forming the poles of the mitotic spindle, which separates chromosomes. Play a role in building structures which assist in cell movement and sensing.
• Chloroplast


  • Sites of photosynthesis in plant cells, where they convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. Within chloroplasts, chlorophyll pigments capture sunlight, which powers the synthesis of glucose from carbon dioxide and water. This process produces oxygen as a byproduct, which is released into the atmosphere. Additionally, chloroplasts store energy in the form of carbohydrates and contribute to the plant's growth and development.
• Cell Wall


  • Protects cells inside the cytoplasm, without introducing outside environmental factors.