Cell Structure and Function: Biochemistry Jerrold T. Mangao, RN, Maedc
Cell Structure and Function: Biochemistry Jerrold T. Mangao, RN, Maedc
Biochemistry
Jerrold T. Mangao, RN, MAEdc
Cell Theory
The cell theory states that:
– All living things are made of one or more cells.
– Cells are the basic unit of structure and function
in living things.
– All cells come from other cells.
Definition of a cell:
basic structural and functional unit of life
2. Function
a. Selectively permeable barrier: controls what
enters and leaves the cell
b. Phospholipids are liquid at body temperature, so
proteins float around in the membrane
-functions as a Fluid Mosaic
Plasma Membrane
Plasma Membrane (2)
2. Function – continued
c. Main responsibility: ensure the composition of
extracellular fluid is not the same as the
composition of the intracellular fluid
d. Water-soluble substances (salts, nutrients) cross
membrane with aid of protein channels, which are
selective about what can pass through
e. Lipids can pass directly through bilayer by
diffusion (the random walk of molecules)
f. Attachment site of cytoskeleton, the internal
support of the cell
Plasma Membrane (3)
3. Glycocalyx = protein and carbohydrate coat
covering the extracellular surface of the
plasma membrane
a. Allows attachment to other cells
b. Allows the cell to interact with the environment
c. Gives each person’s cell a distinctive surface;
allows your body to recognize foreign tissues
as different from your own (i.e., blood type,
transplant rejection)
General Subdivisions of a Cell
• Plasma Membrane = selectively permeable
boundary between the cell and the
environment