cell biology assignment example

The Biology Project > Cell Biology > Studying Cells > Introduction

How Can You Make a Model of a Cell?

Purpose: The purpose of this project is to make a 3D model of a cell in order to better understand the parts and workings of a cell.

Designing a cell model using household objects can be a creative and engaging way for students to understand the structure and components of a cell. Here's a step-by-step guide they can follow:

1. Gather Materials:

Gather all the household objects and materials you'll need. These objects will represent the different organelles and structures within the cell.

2. Identify Cell Parts:

Review the different parts of a cell (organelles like nucleus, mitochondria, cytoplasm, cell membrane, etc.). Assign specific household objects to represent each part based on their shape or function.

• A small bead or marble could represent the nucleus.
• Pieces of pipe cleaners or wires can be shaped to represent the endoplasmic reticulum.
• Small candies or beads might be used for lysosomes.
• Play-doh or clay can also be used to represent structures
• Food items, like macaroni or beans can also represent structures

3. Prepare the Base:

The base can be cardboard (like a shoebox) or a styrofoam ball cut in half. You can be creative if you think other bases could work.

4. Labeling and Coloring:

Use paint, markers, or colored paper to paint or label the different parts of the cell. You could also attach a "key" that identifies each part.

Grading Rubric

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Biology archive

Course: biology archive   >   unit 8.

• Scale of cells
• Cell theory
• Intro to cells

Introduction to cells

• Cells are the basic units of life.
• Each cell must come from a preexisting cell.
• All living things are made up of cells.
• (Choice A)   All living things are made up of cells. A All living things are made up of cells.
• (Choice B)   Cells are the basic units of life. B Cells are the basic units of life.
• (Choice C)   Each cell must come from a preexisting cell. C Each cell must come from a preexisting cell.

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17 Creative Plant Cell Project Ideas To Try This Year

These ideas won’t leaf you disappointed!

Making science come alive in the classroom is important because it helps keep students engaged. By fifth grade, most students begin to learn some biology basics, including what a plant cell is and how it’s structured. While many plant cell project ideas and lessons are geared toward upper elementary school students, the simpler concepts can be taught to younger students using supplies like play dough.

Whether you have your students create 3D plant cell projects in school or as part of a take-home assignment, they can really help kids better understand cells and their organelles. A plant cell project can be complicated (stitching a cell), but many are fairly easy and require little more than the supplies you likely already have on hand.

3D Plant Cell Projects

1. jelly plant cell model.

First, you’ll need to make Jell-O in a lightly greased container. Then, you’ll add candies to represent each organelle. Finally, use toothpicks and stickers to label everything. Bonus: Once you’re finished, you get to eat the leftover candy!

Learn more: Jell-O Plant Cell Model at Science Sparks

2. Clay Model

Grab some Air-Dry Modeling Clay and then get building! Print out the various names of the parts of the cell, including the cell wall and membrane, and then create little flags out of them with toothpicks.

3. Altoids Model

These Altoids tins make for the perfect and oh-so adorably pocket-sized home for a mini 3D plant cell model. You can use card stock to make the various parts of the model and then use two layers of mounting tape or craft foam to make it pop.

Learn more: 3D Mint Tin Cell Model at Teacher Thrive

4. Cardboard Plant Cell Model

This one is somewhat time-consuming, but it requires little more than some recycled cardboard and construction paper or card stock. If a younger child is doing this project, you’ll want an adult to handle the X-Acto knife.

5. Plant Cell Model From Seeds

This 3D plant cell project will take a while, but the results will be well worth it. We especially love the idea of using seeds to create the various parts of the plant cell!

6. LEGO Plant Cell

Kids love LEGO so why not incorporate them into your science unit on plant and animal cells?

7. Plant Cell Cake

This idea is so creative and all you need is a cake pan, frosting, and some candy. Add some toothpicks with labels and your delicious cake just became educational!

8. Stitched Model

You’ll definitely want to have sewing experience before tackling this plant cell project. Since it is time-consuming and requires skill, we think it would be perfect for a handy teacher to create to use as a teaching tool.

Learn more: Stitched Plant Cell at Becky Button

9. Peanut Butter Cell

Another edible option! This one is so simple that it will be easy for young kids to recreate. Since some kids have peanut allergies, you can replace the peanut butter with a more allergy-friendly spread. And you’ll have a tasty treat once the learning is done!

Learn more: Edible Cell Model for Elementary School at Adventures in Mommydom

10. Play-Doh Model

Kids love playing with Play-Doh, so they will really enjoy creating an animal or plant cell in different colors. We especially love that supplies are minimal. Creating each individual part of the plant cell will help kids remember their names and purposes.

Learn more: Introducing Animal and Plant Cells to Kids at Spongy Kids

11. Whole-Class Plant Model

This idea takes a 3D plant cell project to the next level! Students are divided into groups by organelles and then they need to create a blueprint for and build their plant cell component to scale. The giant plant cell is created from clear painter’s drop cloths and then inflated using fans. This activity will engage all your students while also being fun and educational.

Learn more: Biology Students and the Giant Plant Cell at Teachers Network

Other Plant Cell Projects

12. plant cell drawing tutorial.

Kids love to follow drawing tutorials, and this one will be no exception. The muscle memory involved in actually drawing each part should help them with remembering the various components of the plant cell.

13. Rock ‘n Learn Video

This cute video uses relatable characters to teach about the different parts of a plant cell while also highlighting the differences between plant and animal cells.

14. Two-Minute Lesson

This is another video lesson, but this one is geared toward slightly older kids. It’s a great video for kids to bookmark so they can refresh their memories later.

15. Shrinky Dinks Model

Shrinky Dinks have been around for decades, so many teachers and parents probably remember crafting with them at some point in their childhood. They are essentially thin sheets of plastic that you cut and color and then bake in an oven. Once baked, you have a tiny version of what you created.

Learn more: Shrinky Dinks Cell Models at Teacher Thrive

16. Cut-and-Paste Worksheet

These worksheets are a great way to introduce the concept of a plant cell and the various organelles. Grab scissors and glue sticks and get to work learning about plant cells and their organelles!

Learn more: Free Build-Your-Own Animal and Plant Cell Worksheet at You’ve Got This Math

17. A Complete Lesson Plan

This is a complete lesson plan that has students travel to different stations while learning all about animal and plant cells. Students will learn different things when making their way through the four E’s in this plan—engagement, exploration, explanation, and elaboration.

Learn more: Plant and Animal Cell Lesson at Kesler Science

Continue the STEM learning with these  54 Fifth Grade Science Projects .

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Biology Worksheets, Notes, and Quizzes (PDF and PNG)

This is a collection of free biology worksheets, notes, handouts, slides, study guides and quizzes. Most content targets high school, AP biology, genetics, anatomy/physiology, immunology, and biology 101 and 102 in college. There is also biochemistry and physics for biologists. However, some resources are at the grade school and middle school level.

The files are PDF, PNG, JPG, and formats using Google Apps for Google Classroom. Most of the time, these formats are interchangeable. So, if you see something you like, but want a different format, just let us know. Print these resources, make transparencies and slides, etc.

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Biochemistry

[ Google apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ answers PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Enzymes Definitions

[ Google Slides worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ answers PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

• 20 Amino Acids [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Amino Acid Side Chains [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Identifying Type of Biological Macromolecules [ Google Slides worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ answers PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Disaccharide Examples [ PNG ]
• Products of Photosynthesis [ JPG ]
• Anabolism vs Catabolism [ PNG ]
• 3 Parts of a Nucleotide [ PNG ]
• Fermentation Definition and Examples [ PNG ]

General and Cell Biology

Organelles and Their Functions

Parts of a Plant Cell

Label Parts of a Chloroplast

[ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ answers PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Label Parts of a Mitochondria

Label the Animal Cell

[ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes Worksheet

Steps of the Cell Cycle

Steps of Mitosis

Membrane Transport Terms and Definitions

Membrane Transport Worksheet #2

The Plasma Membrane

Label a Bacterial Cell

• Label a Bacteriophage [ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Evidence of Evolution Worksheet [ Google Apps worksheet ][ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answers PNG ]
• Evolutionary Processes Worksheet [ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Major Receptor Families [ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Label a Bacterial Cell Membrane ( E. coli ) [ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Anatomy and Physiology

These worksheets are only a portion of the available anatomy and physiology worksheets. Human anatomy and physiology worksheets have their own section.

Label the Heart

Label the Eye

[ Google Apps worksheet ][ worksheet PDF ][ answers PDF ][ worksheet PNG ]

Types of Blood Cells

[ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Label the Muscles

[ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Label the Ear

[ Google Apps worksheet ][ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answers PNG ]

Label the Lungs

Label the Kidney

Label the Liver

Label the Large Intestine

Label the Stomach

[ Google Apps worksheet ] [Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answers PNG ]

External Nose Anatomy

[ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet Google Apps ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answers PNG ]

Parts of the Nose

Label Bones of the Skeleton

Label the Lymph Node

Label the Parts of the Brain

Label the Lobes of the Brain

Brain Anatomical Sections

Arteries of the Brain

Label the Pancreas

Label the Spleen

Label the Digestive System

Label the Respiratory System

Parts of a Neuron

Label the Lips

Label the Skin

Label the Circulatory System

The Urinary Tract

[ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet Google Apps ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answer Key PNG ]

The Bladder

• The Female Reproductive System [ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Parts of a Flower

Label the Orchid Plant

[ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet Google Apps ][ Worksheet PNG ] [Answer Key PNG ]

Parts of an Orchid Flower

Parts of a Monocot Seed

Parts of a Fern

Parts of a Tree Trunk

Parts of a Tree

[ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Parts of a Mushroom

Label the Shark

Label the Fish

Parts of a Bird

Bird Anatomy

Frog Life Cycle

Parts of a Mosquito (Insect)

Bones of the T. rex Skull

[ worksheets PDF ][ worksheet Google Slides ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Holes of the T. rex Skull

• Label the T. rex Skeleton [ worksheets PDF ][ worksheet Google Slides ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Label Human Teeth [ Worksheet PDF ][ Worksheet Google Apps ][ Worksheet PNG ][ Answer Key PNG ]
• Monocot vs Dicot Seeds [ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet Google Slides ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Label the Moss [ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet Google Slides ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Diagram of the Human Eye [ JPG ]

Use a completed worksheet as a study guide.

Cells of the Immune System

Immune Cell Functions

[ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG #1][ answers PNG #1][ worksheet PNG #2][ answers PNG #2]

Methods to Study Virus Structures

[ worksheet Google Slide ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Icosahedral Virus Capsids

Human DNA Viruses

Human RNA Viruses

This is selection of worksheets relating to DNA, RNA, transcription, translation, genetic crosses, plasmid mapping, etc. See the full collection of genetics worksheets if you’re don’t see what you need.

DNA Replication

Types of Mutations

Monohybrid Cross Worksheet #1

Monohybrid Cross Worksheet #2

Monohybrid Cross Worksheet #3

Monohybrid Cross #4 – Multiple Alleles

• Monohybrid Cross Worksheet #5: Multiple Alleles [ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Monohybrid Cross #6 – Sex-Linked Inheritance

Monohybrid Cross #7 – Sex-Linked Inheritance

Dihybrid Cross Worksheet #1

Dihybrid Cross Worksheet #2

Dihybrid Cross Worksheet #3

Dihybrid Cross Worksheet #4

Dihybrid Cross #5 – Epistasis

Dihybrid Cross #6 – Epistasis

Incomplete Dominance Worksheet #1

Incomplete Dominance Worksheet #2

Natural Selection Worksheet

Convergent vs Divergent Evolution Worksheet

Intro to Pedigrees Worksheet #1

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #2

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #3 – X-Linked Dominant Traits

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #4 – X-Linked Recessive Traits

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #5 – Autosomal Dominant Traits

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #6 – Autosomal Recessive Traits

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #7 – Comprehension Skills

Pedigrees/Genealogy Worksheet #8 – Identifying Inheritance Patterns

Autosomal vs Sex-Linked Inheritance

Plasmid Mapping

• Genotype vs Phenotype [ PNG ]
• Genetic Codon Chart [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• RNA vs DNA [ JPG ]

Use labelled diagrams as study guides.

Ecosystems Worksheet

Levels of Organization (Ecosystem)

Primary Succession

Secondary Succession

Label the Insect

Label the Bee

Chicken Life Cycle (Basic)

Bird Life Cycle (Basic)

Butterfly Life Cycle

• Biotic and Abiotic Factors [ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]
• Kingdoms of Life Graphic [ PNG ]
• Autotroph vs Heterotroph Graphic [ PNG ]
• Commensalism Definition and Examples [ PNG ]
• Difference Between Butterflies and Moths [ JPG ]
• Difference Between Bugs and Insects [ PNG ]

Parasitology

Schistosome Life Cycle

Schistosome Anatomy

• Giardia Life Cycle [ worksheet Google Apps ][ worksheet PDF ][ worksheet PNG ][ answers PNG ]

Physical Science for Biology

There is also an entire section devoted to physical science worksheets and study guides.

• Adhesion vs Cohesion Graphic [ PNG ]
• What Is Entropy? [ PNG ]
• Freezing Point of Water [ PNG ]

Biology Labs

• How to Extract DNA From a Banana [ PNG ]

Biology Word Search Puzzles

• DNA Replication Word Search
• Gel Electrophoresis Word Search
• Citrus Fruits
• General Biology Word Search Puzzle [ PNG ]
• Life Science Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Cell Biology Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Amino Acid Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Biome Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Environmental Science Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Photosynthesis Word Search [ PNG ]
• Human Skeleton Bones Word Search [ PNG ]
• Dinosaur Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Different Dinosaur Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Wild Cats Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Shark Word Search [ PNG ]
• Trees Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Flowers Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Butterfly Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]
• Genetics Word Search [ PNG ][ PDF ]

Miscellaneous Biology Notes and Resouces

• How Long Can Germs Live on Surfaces? [ PNG ]
• 10 Radioactive Foods [ PNG ]
• Examples of Organic Compounds [ PNG ]

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Course Assignments

Assignment: build a cell.

Build a model of a prokaryotic cell using any material of your choice. In your model be sure to include all the structures appropriate to your cell. You may model a bacterial cell or an archaea. You will model at least 4 structures in any model.

Next, build a model of a virus using the same type of materials. You may choose any type of virus but be sure you can illustrate the key features of a virus (head shape for example).

Once complete, take multiple photographs of your models from all angles. Include these images in a document that also contains the following completed table format. You may need to add rows to your table depending on the type of prokaryote you model.

Once your model is complete, write a brief description of your cell and your virus. Emphasize features that are absent in viruses that classify them as non-living. You can refer to specific structures in your table in this explanation.

Some suggestions for 3D models include Legos, a decorated cake with candy toppings, or standard Styrofoam base with appropriate pieces attached. You can also draw or illustrate a model.

Rubric: Build a Cell

• Assignment: Build a Cell. Authored by : Shelli Carter and Lumen Learning. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution

• Biology Article

Cells are the basic, fundamental unit of life. So, if we were to break apart an organism to the cellular level, the smallest independent component that we would find would be the cell.

Explore the cell notes to know what is a cell, cell definition, cell structure, types and functions of cells. These notes have an in-depth description of all the concepts related to cells.

Table of Contents

Cell Definition

What is a cell, characteristics of cells, types of cells, cell structure, cell theory.

• Functions of a Cell

Cells are the fundamental unit of life. They range in size from 0.0001 mm to nearly 150 mm across.

“A cell is defined as the smallest, basic unit of life that is responsible for all of life’s processes.”

Cells are the structural, functional, and biological units of all living beings. A cell can replicate itself independently. Hence, they are known as the building blocks of life . 

Each cell contains a fluid called the cytoplasm, which is enclosed by a membrane. Also present in the cytoplasm are several biomolecules like proteins, nucleic acids and lipids. Moreover, cellular structures called cell organelles are suspended in the cytoplasm.

A cell is the structural and fundamental unit of life. The study of cells from its basic structure to the functions of every cell organelle is called Cell Biology. Robert Hooke was the first Biologist who discovered cells.

All organisms are made up of cells. They may be made up of a single cell (unicellular), or many cells (multicellular).  Mycoplasmas are the smallest known cells. Cells are the building blocks of all living beings. They provide structure to the body and convert the nutrients taken from the food into energy.

Cells are complex and their components perform various functions in an organism. They are of different shapes and sizes, pretty much like bricks of the buildings. Our body is made up of cells of different shapes and sizes.

Cells are the lowest level of organisation in every life form. From organism to organism, the count of cells may vary. Humans have more number of cells compared to that of  bacteria .

Cells comprise several cell organelles that perform specialised functions to carry out life processes. Every organelle has a specific structure. The hereditary material of the organisms is also present in the cells.

Discovery of Cells

Discovery of cells is one of the remarkable advancements in the field of science. It helps us know that all the organisms are made up of cells, and these cells help in carrying out various life processes. The structure and functions of cells helped us to understand life in a better way.

Who discovered cells?

Robert Hooke discovered the cell in 1665. Robert Hooke observed a piece of bottle cork under a compound microscope and noticed minuscule structures that reminded him of small rooms. Consequently, he named these “rooms” as cells. However, his compound microscope had limited magnification, and hence, he could not see any details in the structure. Owing to this limitation, Hooke concluded that these were non-living entities.

Later Anton Van Leeuwenhoek observed cells under another compound microscope with higher magnification. This time, he had noted that the cells exhibited some form of movement (motility). As a result, Leeuwenhoek concluded that these microscopic entities were “alive.” Eventually, after a host of other observations, these entities were named as animalcules.

In 1883, Robert Brown, a Scottish botanist, provided the very first insights into the cell structure. He was able to describe the nucleus present in the cells of orchids.

Following are the various essential characteristics of cells:

• Cells provide structure and support to the body of an organism.
• The cell interior is organised into different individual organelles surrounded by a separate membrane.
• The nucleus (major organelle) holds genetic information necessary for reproduction and cell growth.
• Every cell has one nucleus and membrane-bound organelles in the cytoplasm.
• Mitochondria, a double membrane-bound organelle is mainly responsible for the energy transactions vital for the survival of the cell.
• Lysosomes digest unwanted materials in the cell.
• Endoplasmic reticulum plays a significant role in the internal organisation of the cell by synthesising selective molecules and processing, directing and sorting them to their appropriate locations.

Also Read : Nucleus

Cells are similar to factories with different labourers and departments that work towards a common objective. Various types of cells perform different functions. Based on cellular structure, there are two types of cells:

• Prokaryotes

Explore:   Difference Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic Cells

Main article: Prokaryotic Cells

• Prokaryotic cells have no nucleus. Instead, some prokaryotes such as bacteria have a region within the cell where the genetic material is freely suspended. This region is called the nucleoid.
• They all are single-celled microorganisms. Examples include archaea, bacteria, and cyanobacteria.
• The cell size ranges from 0.1 to 0.5 µm in diameter.
• The hereditary material can either be DNA or RNA.
• Prokaryotes generally reproduce by binary fission, a form of asexual reproduction. They are also known to use conjugation – which is often seen as the prokaryotic equivalent to sexual reproduction (however, it is NOT sexual reproduction).

Eukaryotic Cells

Main article : Eukaryotic Cells

• Eukaryotic cells are characterised by a true nucleus.
• The size of the cells ranges between 10–100 µm in diameter.
• This broad category involves plants, fungi, protozoans, and animals.
• The plasma membrane is responsible for monitoring the transport of nutrients and electrolytes in and out of the cells. It is also responsible for cell to cell communication.
• They reproduce sexually as well as asexually.
• There are some contrasting features between plant and animal cells. For eg., the plant cell contains chloroplast, central vacuoles, and other plastids, whereas the animal cells do not.

The cell structure comprises individual components with specific functions essential to carry out life’s processes. These components include- cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, and cell organelles. Read on to explore more insights on cell structure and function.

Cell Membrane

• The cell membrane supports and protects the cell. It controls the movement of substances in and out of the cells. It separates the cell from the external environment. The cell membrane is present in all the cells.
• The cell membrane is the outer covering of a cell within which all other organelles, such as the cytoplasm and nucleus, are enclosed. It is also referred to as the plasma membrane.
• By structure, it is a porous membrane (with pores) which permits the movement of selective substances in and out of the cell.  Besides this, the cell membrane also protects the cellular component from damage and leakage.
• It forms the wall-like structure between two cells as well as between the cell and its surroundings.
• Plants are immobile, so their cell structures are well-adapted to protect them from external factors. The cell wall helps to reinforce this function.
• The cell wall is the most prominent part of the plant’s cell structure. It is made up of cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin.
• The cell wall is present exclusively in plant cells. It protects the plasma membrane and other cellular components. The cell wall is also the outermost layer of plant cells.
• It is a rigid and stiff structure surrounding the cell membrane.
• It provides shape and support to the cells and protects them from mechanical shocks and injuries.
• The cytoplasm is a thick, clear, jelly-like substance present inside the cell membrane.
• Most of the chemical reactions within a cell take place in this cytoplasm.
• The cell organelles such as endoplasmic reticulum, vacuoles, mitochondria, ribosomes, are suspended in this cytoplasm.
• The nucleus contains the hereditary material of the cell, the DNA.
• It sends signals to the cells to grow, mature, divide and die.
• The nucleus is surrounded by the nuclear envelope that separates the DNA from the rest of the cell.
• The nucleus protects the DNA  and is an integral component of a plant’s cell structure.

Cell Organelles

Cells are composed of various cell organelles that perform certain specific functions to carry out life’s processes. The different cell organelles, along with its principal functions, are as follows:

Cell Theory was proposed by the German scientists,  Theodor Schwann, Matthias Schleiden, and Rudolf Virchow. The cell theory states that:

• All living species on Earth are composed of cells.
• A cell is the basic unit of life.
• All cells arise from pre-existing cells.

A modern version of the cell theory was eventually formulated, and it contains the following postulates:

• Energy flows within the cells.
• Genetic information is passed on from one cell to the other.
• The chemical composition of all the cells is the same.

Functions of Cell

A cell performs major functions essential for the growth and development of an organism. Important functions of cell are as follows:

Provides Support and Structure

All the organisms are made up of cells. They form the structural basis of all the organisms. The cell wall and the cell membrane are the main components that function to provide support and structure to the organism. For eg., the skin is made up of a large number of cells. Xylem present in the vascular plants is made of cells that provide structural support to the plants.

Facilitate Growth Mitosis

In the process of mitosis, the parent cell divides into the daughter cells. Thus, the cells multiply and facilitate the growth in an organism.

Allows Transport of Substances

Various nutrients are imported by the cells to carry out various chemical processes going on inside the cells. The waste produced by the chemical processes is eliminated from the cells by active and passive transport. Small molecules such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, and ethanol diffuse across the cell membrane along the concentration gradient. This is known as passive transport. The larger molecules diffuse across the cell membrane through active transport where the cells require a lot of energy to transport the substances.

Energy Production

Cells require energy to carry out various chemical processes. This energy is produced by the cells through a process called   photosynthesis in plants and respiration in animals.

Aids in Reproduction

A cell aids in reproduction through the processes called mitosis and meiosis. Mitosis is termed as the asexual reproduction where the parent cell divides to form daughter cells. Meiosis causes the daughter cells to be genetically different from the parent cells.

Thus, we can understand why cells are known as the structural and functional unit of life. This is because they are responsible for providing structure to the organisms and perform several functions necessary for carrying out life’s processes.

Also Read:  Difference Between Plant Cell and Animal Cell

To know more about what is a cell, its definition, cell structure, types of cells, the discovery of cells, functions of cells or any other related topics, explore  BYJU’S Biology . Alternatively, download BYJU’S app for a personalised learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is a cell, 2. state the characteristics of cells..

• Cells provide the necessary structural support to an organism.
• The genetic information necessary for reproduction is present within the nucleus.
• Structurally, the cell has cell organelles which are suspended in the cytoplasm.
• Mitochondria is the organelle responsible for fulfilling the cell’s energy requirements.
• Lysosomes digest metabolic wastes and foreign particles in the cell.
• Endoplasmic reticulum synthesises selective molecules and processes them, eventually directing them to their appropriate locations.

3. Highlight the cell structure and its components.

The cell structure comprises several individual components which perform specific functions essential to carry out life processes. The components of the cell are as follows:

• Cell membrane
• Nuclear membrane
• Endoplasmic reticulum
• Golgi Bodies
• Mitochondria
• Chloroplast

4. State the types of cells.

Cells are primarily classified into two types, namely

• Prokaryotic cells
• Eukaryotic cells

5. Elaborate Cell Theory.

Cell Theory was proposed by  Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann, and Rudolf Virchow, who were German scientists. The cell theory states that:

6. What is the function of mitochondria in the cells?

7. what are the functions of the cell.

The essential functions of the cell include:

• The cell provides support and structure to the body.
• It facilitates growth by mitosis.
• It helps in reproduction.
• Provides energy and allows the transport of substances.

8. What is the function of Golgi bodies?

9. who discovered the cell and how, 10. name the cell organelle that contains hydrolytic enzymes capable of breaking down organic matter., 11. which cellular structure regulates the entry and exit of molecules to and from the cell.

Register at BYJU’S for cell related Biology notes. Refer to these notes for reference.

Further Reading:  Cell Biology MCQs

Put your understanding of this concept to test by answering a few MCQs. Click ‘Start Quiz’ to begin!

Select the correct answer and click on the “Finish” button Check your score and answers at the end of the quiz

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What is a cell?

What is cell theory, what do cell membranes do.

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

• British Society for Cell Biology - What is a cell?
• MSD Manual - Consumer Version - Cells
• Chemistry LibreTexts - Cell Tutorial
• Roger Williams University Open Publishing - Introduction to Molecular and Cell Biology - Introduction to Cells
• National Center for Biotechnology Information - The Origin and Evolution of Cells
• University of Minnesota Libraries - The Science of Plants - Plant Cells and Tissues
• cell - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
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A cell is a mass of cytoplasm that is bound externally by a cell membrane . Usually microscopic in size, cells are the smallest structural units of living matter and compose all living things. Most cells have one or more nuclei and other organelles that carry out a variety of tasks. Some single cells are complete organisms, such as a bacterium or yeast . Others are specialized building blocks of multicellular organisms , such as plants and animals .

Cell theory states that the cell is the fundamental structural and functional unit of living matter. In 1839 German physiologist  Theodor Schwann  and German botanist  Matthias Schleiden  promulgated that cells are the “elementary particles of organisms” in both plants and animals and recognized that some organisms are unicellular and others multicellular. This theory marked a great conceptual advance in biology and resulted in renewed attention to the living processes that go on in cells.

The cell membrane surrounds every living cell and delimits the cell from the surrounding environment. It serves as a barrier to keep the contents of the cell in and unwanted substances out. It also functions as a gate to both actively and passively move essential nutrients into the cell and waste products out of it. Certain proteins in the cell membrane are involved with cell-to-cell communication and help the cell to respond to changes in its environment.

cell , in biology , the basic membrane-bound unit that contains the fundamental molecules of life and of which all living things are composed. A single cell is often a complete organism in itself, such as a bacterium or yeast . Other cells acquire specialized functions as they mature. These cells cooperate with other specialized cells and become the building blocks of large multicellular organisms, such as humans and other animals . Although cells are much larger than atoms , they are still very small. The smallest known cells are a group of tiny bacteria called mycoplasmas ; some of these single-celled organisms are spheres as small as 0.2 μm in diameter (1μm = about 0.000039 inch), with a total mass of 10 −14 gram—equal to that of 8,000,000,000 hydrogen atoms. Cells of humans typically have a mass 400,000 times larger than the mass of a single mycoplasma bacterium, but even human cells are only about 20 μm across. It would require a sheet of about 10,000 human cells to cover the head of a pin, and each human organism is composed of more than 30,000,000,000,000 cells.

This article discusses the cell both as an individual unit and as a contributing part of a larger organism. As an individual unit, the cell is capable of metabolizing its own nutrients , synthesizing many types of molecules, providing its own energy, and replicating itself in order to produce succeeding generations. It can be viewed as an enclosed vessel, within which innumerable chemical reactions take place simultaneously. These reactions are under very precise control so that they contribute to the life and procreation of the cell. In a multicellular organism , cells become specialized to perform different functions through the process of differentiation. In order to do this, each cell keeps in constant communication with its neighbours. As it receives nutrients from and expels wastes into its surroundings, it adheres to and cooperates with other cells. Cooperative assemblies of similar cells form tissues, and a cooperation between tissues in turn forms organs , which carry out the functions necessary to sustain the life of an organism.

Special emphasis is given in this article to animal cells, with some discussion of the energy-synthesizing processes and extracellular components peculiar to plants . (For detailed discussion of the biochemistry of plant cells, see photosynthesis . For a full treatment of the genetic events in the cell nucleus, see heredity .)

The nature and function of cells

A cell is enclosed by a plasma membrane , which forms a selective barrier that allows nutrients to enter and waste products to leave. The interior of the cell is organized into many specialized compartments, or organelles , each surrounded by a separate membrane. One major organelle , the nucleus , contains the genetic information necessary for cell growth and reproduction . Each cell contains only one nucleus, whereas other types of organelles are present in multiple copies in the cellular contents, or cytoplasm . Organelles include mitochondria , which are responsible for the energy transactions necessary for cell survival; lysosomes , which digest unwanted materials within the cell; and the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus , which play important roles in the internal organization of the cell by synthesizing selected molecules and then processing, sorting, and directing them to their proper locations. In addition, plant cells contain chloroplasts , which are responsible for photosynthesis, whereby the energy of sunlight is used to convert molecules of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and water (H 2 O) into carbohydrates . Between all these organelles is the space in the cytoplasm called the cytosol . The cytosol contains an organized framework of fibrous molecules that constitute the cytoskeleton , which gives a cell its shape, enables organelles to move within the cell, and provides a mechanism by which the cell itself can move. The cytosol also contains more than 10,000 different kinds of molecules that are involved in cellular biosynthesis , the process of making large biological molecules from small ones.

Specialized organelles are a characteristic of cells of organisms known as eukaryotes . In contrast, cells of organisms known as prokaryotes do not contain organelles and are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells. However, all cells share strong similarities in biochemical function.

The molecules of cells

Cells contain a special collection of molecules that are enclosed by a membrane. These molecules give cells the ability to grow and reproduce . The overall process of cellular reproduction occurs in two steps: cell growth and cell division . During cell growth, the cell ingests certain molecules from its surroundings by selectively carrying them through its cell membrane . Once inside the cell, these molecules are subjected to the action of highly specialized, large, elaborately folded molecules called enzymes . Enzymes act as catalysts by binding to ingested molecules and regulating the rate at which they are chemically altered. These chemical alterations make the molecules more useful to the cell. Unlike the ingested molecules, catalysts are not chemically altered themselves during the reaction, allowing one catalyst to regulate a specific chemical reaction in many molecules.

Biological catalysts create chains of reactions. In other words, a molecule chemically transformed by one catalyst serves as the starting material, or substrate, of a second catalyst and so on. In this way, catalysts use the small molecules brought into the cell from the outside environment to create increasingly complex reaction products. These products are used for cell growth and the replication of genetic material. Once the genetic material has been copied and there are sufficient molecules to support cell division, the cell divides to create two daughter cells. Through many such cycles of cell growth and division, each parent cell can give rise to millions of daughter cells, in the process converting large amounts of inanimate matter into biologically active molecules.

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June 19, 2024

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A railroad of cells: Computer simulations explain cell movement

by Institute of Science and Technology Austria

Looking under the microscope, a group of cells slowly moves forward in a line, like a train on the tracks. The cells navigate through complex environments. A new approach by researchers involving the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) now shows how they do this and how they interact with each other. The experimental observations and the following mathematical concept are published in Nature Physics .

The majority of the cells in the human body cannot move. Some specific ones, however, can go to different places. For example, in wound healing, cells move through the body to repair damaged tissue. They sometimes travel alone or in different group sizes.

Although the process is increasingly understood, little is known about how cells interact while traveling and how they collectively navigate the complex environments found in the body. An interdisciplinary team of theoretical physicists at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) and experimentalists from the University of Mons in Belgium now has new insights.

Much like social dynamics experiments, where understanding the interactions of a small group of people is easier than analyzing an entire society, the scientists studied the traveling behavior of a small group of cells in well-defined in vitro surroundings, i.e. outside a living organism, in a Petri dish equipped with interior features. Based on their findings, they developed a framework of interaction rules.

Cells travel in trains

David Brückner rushes back to his office to grab his laptop. "I think it's better to show some videos of our experiments," he says and presses play.

The video shows a Petri dish. Microstripes—one-dimensional lanes guiding cell movement —are printed on the substrate beside a zebrafish scale made up of numerous cells. Special wound-healing cells, known as "keratocytes" start to stretch away from the scale, forming branches into the lanes.

"At first, cells stick together through adhesive molecules on their surface—it's like they're holding hands," explains Brückner. Suddenly, the bond breaks off, and the cells assemble into tiny groups, moving forward like trains along tracks.

"The length of the train is always different. Sometimes it's two, sometimes it's ten. It depends on the initial conditions."

Eléonore Vercurysse and Sylvain Gabriele from the University of Mons in Belgium observed this phenomenon while investigating keratocytes and their wound-healing features within different geometrical patterns. To help interpret these puzzling observations, they reached out to theoretical physicists David Brückner and Edouard Hannezo at ISTA.

Cells have steering wheels

"There's a gradient within each cell that determines where the cell is going. It's called 'polarity' and it's like the cell's very own steering wheel," says Brückner. "Cells communicate their polarity to neighboring cells, allowing them to move in concert." But how they do so has remained a big puzzle in the field.

Brückner and Hannezo started brainstorming. The two scientists developed a mathematical model combining a cell's polarity, its interactions, and the geometry of its surroundings. They then transferred the framework into computer simulations , which helped them visualize different scenarios.

The first thing the scientists in Austria looked at was the speed of the cell trains. The simulation revealed that the speed of the trains is independent of their length, whether they consist of two or ten cells.

"Imagine if the first cell did all the work, dragging the others behind it; the overall performance would decrease," says Hannezo. "But that's not the case. Within the trains, all the cells are polarized in the same direction. They are aligned and in sync about their movement and smoothly move forward." In other words, the trains operate like an all-wheel drive rather than just a front-wheel drive.

As a next step, the theoreticians examined the effects of increasing the width of the lanes and the cell clusters in their simulations. Compared to cells moving in a single file, clusters were much slower. The explanation is quite simple: the more cells are clustered together, the more they bump into each other. These collisions cause them to polarize away from each other and move in opposite directions. The cells are not aligned properly, which disrupts the flow of movement and drastically influences the overall speed. This phenomenon was also observed in the Belgian lab (in vitro experiments).

Dead end? No problem for cell clusters

From an efficiency standpoint, it sounds like moving in clusters is not ideal. However, the model predicted that it also had its benefits when cells navigate through complex terrain, as they do, for instance, in the human body. To test this, the scientists added a dead end, both in the experiments and in the simulations.

"Trains of cells get to the dead end quickly, but struggle to change direction. Their polarization is well aligned, and it's very hard for them to agree on switching around," says Brückner. "Whereas in the cluster, quite a few cells are already polarized in the other direction, making the change of direction way easier."

Trains or clusters?

Naturally, the question arises: when do cells move in clusters, and when do they move in trains? The answer is that both scenarios are observed in nature. For example, some developmental processes rely on clusters of cells moving from one side to the other, while others depend on small trains of cells moving independently.

"Our model doesn't only apply to a single process. Instead, it is a broadly applicable framework showing that placing cells in an environment with geometric constraints is highly instructive, as it challenges them and allows us to decipher their interactions with each other," Hannezo adds.

A small train packed with information

Recent publications by the Hannezo group suggest that cell communication propagates in waves—an interplay between biochemical signals, physical behavior, and motion. The scientists' new model now provides a physical foundation for these cell-to-cell interactions, possibly aiding in understanding the big picture.

Based on this framework, the collaborators can delve deeper into the molecular players involved in this process. According to Brückner, the behaviors revealed by these small cell trains can help us understand large-scale movements, such as those seen in entire tissues.

In order to better understand fundamental processes, for example, in the fields of neuroscience, immunology, or genetics, the use of animals in research is indispensable. No other methods, such as in silico models, can serve as an alternative. The animals are raised, kept, and treated according to the strict regulations of the respective countries where the research is conducted.

Journal information: Nature Physics

Provided by Institute of Science and Technology Austria

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