Eukaryotic Cell Structure

Structure Function Electron micrograph image

Plasma membrane The plasma membrane

controls what enters and
exits the cell. The plasma
membrane is composed of
phospholipids.

Cytoplasm Most of the metabolism that

occurs in the cell occurs in
the cytoplasm. The
cytoplasm is mostly
composed of water.

80S Ribosomes The 80S ribosomes are

responsible for protein
synthesis.

Nucleus Chromosomes associated

with histone proteins are
located in the nucleus. The
nucleus has a double
membrane with pores which
allow mRNA to enter the
cytoplasm

Chromosomes Chromosomes are

composed of DNA wrapped
around histone proteins.
The DNA is the genetic
material with information for
growth and development of
the cell.
Mitochondrion Aerobic respiration,
producing ATP.

Vacuoles Plants have large vacuoles

involved in storing nutrients.
Small vacuoles are found in
animal cells and are
involved in the removal of
waste.

Lysosome Lysosomes are specialised

vesicles, which contain
enzymes. They are involved
in the digestion of large
molecules.

Rough Endoplasmic The rough endoplasmic

Reticulum reticulum is a membrane
structure with ribosomes
attached. It is the site of
protein synthesis, and is
involved in transporting
proteins to the Golgi
Apparatus.

Smooth endoplasmic The smooth endplasmic

reticulum reticulum is a membrane
structure without ribisomes
attached. It is involved in
lipid synthesis, and
detoxification.
Golgi Apparatus The Golgi Apparatus
modifies and packages
proteins to be exported from
the cell.

Cytoskeleton The cytoskeleton is

composed of protein
microtubules, and is
involved in maintaining cell
shape, moving organelles,
and nuclear division (mitosis
and meiosis).