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According to cell theory, all biological/living organisms are made up of cells. Multicellular organisms are
made up of many cells, whereas unicellular organisms are made up of only one cell. Cells are the
fundamental unit of life, and all life arises from pre-existing life.
Prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells are the two types of cells. A prokaryotic cell is a one-celled
(unicellular) organism that lacks a nucleus and any other membrane-bound organelle. A eukaryotic cell,
on the other hand, is one that has a membrane-bound nucleus as well as other membrane-bound
compartments or sacs known as organelles that serve specific functions.
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have structures in common. They both have DNA, cytoplasm,
ribosomes, a cell membrane, and a plasma membrane. They are also similar in that they have vesicles,
vacuoles, and the ability to perform the eight functions of life.
Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus surrounded by a complex nuclear membrane and usually have a
single circular chromosome located in a nucleoid. Prokaryotic cells are much smaller than eukaryotic
cells, lack a nucleus, and are devoid of organelles. A cell wall surrounds all prokaryotic cells. Many also
have a polysaccharide capsule or slime layer. Prokaryotes frequently have surface appendages.
Eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus that encloses the chromosomes. Their linear
chromosomes are made up of DNA and histone proteins and come in pairs. Other membrane-bound
organelles suspended in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells Eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound
nucleus. Several membrane-bound organelles (including the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus,
chloroplasts, and mitochondria) and several rod-shaped chromosomes
The plasma membrane’s primary function is to keep the cell safe from its surroundings. Cell membranes
function as barriers as well as gatekeepers. Protein machines embedded in our cell membranes act as
“gatekeepers,” controlling everything that enters and exits each cell in our bodies. The cell membrane
also supports the cytoplasm structurally, recognizes foreign material, and communicates with other
cells, all of which help to maintain homeostasis.
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a large, dynamic structure in the cell that performs numerous
functions such as calcium storage, protein synthesis, and lipid metabolism. It is in charge of steroid
hormone production and secretion. It is also in charge of producing essential lipids like phospholipids
and cholesterol. It is in charge of carbohydrates metabolism.
There are significant differences between smooth and rough ER. Smooth ER is found near the cell
membrane, whereas Rough ER is found near the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. Smooth ER is derived
from rough endoplasmic reticulum by sacrificing the ribosomes, whereas Rough ER is derived from the
nuclear membrane. The rough ER, which contains millions of membrane-bound ribosomes, is involved in
the production, folding, quality control, and despatch of some proteins. Smooth ER is heavily linked to
lipid (fat) production and metabolism, as well as steroid and hormone production.
The Golgi apparatus, also known as the Golgi complex, processes and packages proteins that have exited
the rough endoplasmic reticulum for further transport inside and/or outside the cell. When a factory
where proteins from the ER are further processed and sorted for transport to their final destinations:
lysosomes, the plasma membrane, or secretion.
Lysosomes’ primary function is waste digestion and removal. They are commonly referred to as terminal
catabolic stations because they rid cells of waste and scavenge metabolic building blocks that sustain
essential biosynthetic reactions during starvation. Autophagocytosis or autophagy, on the other hand,
digests discarded wastes and other substances that originate within the cell.
The primary function of the peroxisome is lipid metabolism and reactive oxygen species processing.
Other peroxisomes are involved in various oxidative processes.
They also contribute to lipid metabolism and the catabolism of D-amino acids, polyamines, and bile
acids. They are also involved in a variety of activities, such as Catalase’s degradation of hydrogen
peroxide.
The primary function of mitochondria is to generate energy via the process of oxidative
phosphorylation. It is also involved in the following processes: regulates the cell’s metabolic activity. It
encourages the formation of new cells and cell multiplication. Aids in the detoxification of ammonia in
the liver cells. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is an important process. And is in charge of the
formation of certain blood components as well as hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen.
How are Plant Cells different from Animal Cells?
Plant cells do not have a centrosome or lysosomes, whereas animal cells do. Plant cells, as opposed to
animal cells, have a cell wall, chloroplasts and other specialized plastids, and a large central vacuole.
Plant cells are typically larger than animal cells. Animal cells come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with
the most common being round or irregular. Plant cells are typically rectangular or cube shaped and have
a more uniform size. The complex carbohydrate glycogen is used to store energy in animal cells. Starch
is used by plant cells to store energy.
Mitochondria and chloroplast are the two organelles that have their own DNA.
Apart from the cell nucleus, it has its own genome (DNA). It also has its own ribosome and is responsible
for protein synthesis.
Mitochondria, on the other hand, is the hub of a cell’s energy production. It contains a small amount of
their own DNA and is known as mtDNA.