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Functions of Organelles |
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Nucleus: A membrane-bound region of eukaryotic cells. Contains the
genetic material - DNA. |
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Ribosome: An organelle that is present in both eurkyaotic and
prokaryotic cells, the ribosome is composed of RNA (ribonucleic acid) and
proteins. The ribosome functions in protein assembly through the process of
translation. |
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Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): A eukaryotic organelle that is composed of
interconnected tubules, vesicles and cisternae. The Endoplasmic Reticulum is
responsible for packaging of proteins, and works closely with the ribosomes,
golgi apparatus and RNA. There are two types of endoplasmic reticulum:
Smooth and Rough. |
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Rough ER:
Plays a role in protein synthesis and packaging. The ER appears "rough"
because Ribosomes are attached to the ER membrane. |
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Smooth ER:
Mainly for storage of ions and steroids. Smooth because it is not studded
with Ribosomes. |
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Mitochondrion: The "powerhouse" of the cell, the mitochondrion produces
energy in the form of ATP via the electron transport chain. The
mitochondrion is enclosed by its own membrane |
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Lysosome: An organelle that contains digestive enzymes, the lysosome
"digests" cellular trash such as old organelles, viruses, bacteria and food
particles. |
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Golgi Apparatus: An organelle responsible for shipment of substances
inside the cell. |
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Peroxisome (Microbody): An eukaryotic organelle responsible for
metabolism of fatty acids, toxic peroxides, and other substances. |
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Cilium / Flagellum: Both cilium and flagellum are organelles
responsible for cell locomotion. Cilia are tail-like cellular projections,
while flagellum are projections that move like a whip to move the cell. |
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Cytoskeleton: The cytoskeleton is the scaffolding found within the
cytoplasm. The cytoskeleton is responsible for maintaining cell structure.
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