BIO102 - Cell Biology & Genetics Fundamentals

Often called the "powerhouse of the cell," mitochondria are responsible for cellular respiration, generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through the breakdown of glucose and other organic molecules.

The RER is studded with ribosomes and is primarily involved in the synthesis, folding, modification, and transport of proteins destined for secretion, insertion into membranes, or delivery to other organelles like the Golgi apparatus.

The SER is involved in lipid synthesis (e.g., steroids, phospholipids), detoxification of drugs and poisons, and storage of calcium ions ($C{a}^{2+}$).

The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids synthesized in the ER into vesicles for secretion or delivery to other organelles. It's like the cell's postal service.

The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) organized into chromosomes. It controls cell growth, metabolism, and reproduction by regulating gene expression and protein synthesis.

Interphase consists of three phases:

Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus. It involves four main stages: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase, followed by Cytokinesis.

Meiosis is a two-stage cell division process (Meiosis I and Meiosis II) that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid daughter cells (gametes). Its significance lies in sexual reproduction and generating genetic variation through crossing over and independent assortment.