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Cell membrane
A selectively permeable phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that surrounds all cells, controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Cell wall
A rigid structural layer composed primarily of cellulose (in plants) that surrounds the cell membrane, providing mechanical support and protection.
Chloroplasts
Double-membrane-bound organelles found in plant cells and algae containing chlorophyll, which are the site of photosynthesis.
Cytoplasm
The aqueous, gel-like substance enclosed by the cell membrane that contains all organelles, dissolved nutrients, enzymes, and where many metabolic reactions occur.
Differentiation
The process by which a cell becomes specialized to perform a specific function, involving changes in structure and which genes are expressed.
Mitochondria
Double-membrane-bound organelles that are the site of aerobic cellular respiration, converting glucose and oxygen into ATP (usable energy).
mRNA
A temporary copy of a gene used to carry instructions to the ribosome.
Nucleus
A membrane-bound organelle containing chromosomes (DNA) and a nucleolus, which controls cellular activities by regulating gene expression and protein synthesis.
Organelles
Membrane-bound or non-membrane-bound structures within a cell that perform specific, specialized functions essential for cellular processes.
Ribosomes
Small non-membrane-bound organelles composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins, which are the site of protein synthesis through translation.
Stem cells
Unspecialized cells that can divide and differentiate into many different specialized cell types.
Example
Vacuole
A membrane-bound organelle filled with cell sap (water, dissolved sugars, salts, and pigments) that maintains turgor pressure in plant cells.