Organelles in the Cytoplasm
The various cell organelles present in the cytoplasm are as follows:
Nucleus
It is the biggest organelle and serves as the command center for cellular operations as well as the DNA repository for the cell. The nucleolus, or small spherical entities, are found inside the nucleus. It also contains chromosomes and genes that are carried by chromosomes. The nucleus manages the traits and operations of our body’s cells. Using the genetic information contained in DNA, the nucleus’ main job is to keep track of cellular functions like metabolism and growth. Protein and RNA synthesis takes place in the nucleus of the nucleoli.
Mitochondria
As it generate energy in the form of ATP for the cell, mitochondria are referred to as the powerhouses of the cell. In many species, the mitochondrial genome is transmitted from the mother. It is a sausage-shaped organelle with two membranes linked to it that is present in practically all eukaryotic cells.
Endoplasmic Reticulum
The Endoplasmic Reticulum is a network of fluid-filled membranous tubes. They are the cell’s transport system and are responsible for moving materials around the cell.
The endoplasmic reticulum comes in two varieties:
- The production of proteins is carried out by the rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is made up of cisternae, tubules, and vesicles.
- Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum: This organelle serves as a storage area and is involved in the synthesis of lipids and steroids, as well as the detoxification of the cell.
Plastids
Membrane-bound organelles called plastids hold pigment. Plastids can be classified into three groups based on the sort of pigments they contain:
- Chloroplast: Chloroplasts are dual membrane-bound organelles present in the mesophyll cells of leaves. The photosynthetic process depends on the pigments’ ability to store light energy. The stroma of chloroplasts likewise has dual circular DNA, 70S ribosomes, including enzymes necessary for the production of carbs, similar to the mitochondrial matrix does.
- Chromoplasts: This comprises low-saturated carotene compounds, such as xanthophylls and carotene, which give plants their distinctive colors, such as yellow, and red.
- Leucoplasts are colorless plastids that serve as food storage. Aleuroplasts retain proteins, elaioplasts hold oils and lipids, and amyloplasts hold carbs (such as the starch in potatoes).
Ribosomes
In close proximity to the endoplasmic reticulum are ribosomes, significant non-membrane-bound cytoplasmic organelles. Numerous cells have microscopic particles called ribosomes, which are primarily made up of 2/3 RNA and 1/3 protein. They are referred to as the 70s or the 80s (found in prokaryotes) (found in eukaryotes) Either the endoplasmic reticulum encloses ribosomes or they are freely dispersed throughout the cytoplasm of the cell. In all living cells the function of the ribosomes is to synthesize proteins.
Golgi Apparatus
The Golgi Apparatus is a membrane-bound organelle made up of cisternae, which are a series of flat, piled pouches. Proteins and lipids are transported, and packaged by this organelle to reach specific locations.
Cytoskeleton
The cytoskeleton consists of protein filaments found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The cytoskeleton provides structural support to the cell, helps maintain cell shape, and is essential for intracellular transport, cell motility, and cell division.
Centrosome and Centriole
The centrosome found in animal cells, consists of two centrioles. They are cylindrical structures composed of microtubules. Centrioles takes part in cell division, and organize and direct the formation of the mitotic spindle, that ensures accurate chromosome segregation.
Cytoplasm – Structure and Function
Cytoplasm is a semi-fluid, gel-like substance found in all living cells, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. It surrounds the cell’s organelles and nucleus. It acts as the medium in which various cellular processes like protein synthesis, metabolism, and many chemical reactions take place. The cytoplasm contains water, ions, nutrients, and various molecules necessary for cellular activities.
Table of Content
- Cytoplasm Definition
- What is Cytoplasm?
- Structure of the Cytoplasm
- Diagram of the Cytoplasm
- Functions of the Cytoplasm
- Organelles in the cytoplasm
- FAQs on Cytoplasm
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