P1: Describe the functions of the main cell components
In this assignment I am going to describe the functions of cell organelles by explaining the main activities, where they are and what they do.
To begin with I am going to describe the cell membrane which is an extracellular organelle. One of its functions is to surround the cell keeping the cytoplasm and other organelles within the cell; like a skin otherwise the cell will be unsustainable and go everywhere. Its main function is to safeguard intracellular components from the extracellular environment; the cell membrane does this as it is a semi-permeable membrane which only allows a certain amount of substances into the cell.
The Centrosome is a small clear cytoplasm that contains centrioles and lies next to the nucleus. The centrosome looks like a set of tubes called tubules that are set in a cylindrical formation, the tubules produce microtubules that transports proteins during cellular mitosis. During mitosis the Centrioles divide and move to opposite sides to continue and repeat this process.
The Golgi body is a series of flattened fluid sacs which is located near the nucleus, many tiny fluid-filled globules or bags lie close to the main stack, these are called vesicles. The Golgi body packages protein for delivery to other organelles or outwards from cell secretions, the Golgi body is also responsible for producing Lysosomes.
The Lysosome is a round organelle that is surrounded by a membrane and containing digestive enzymes. The Lysosome is scattered all over the cell so the digestion of cell nutrients takes place, the Lysosome breaks down substances such as lipids, carbohydrates and proteins into smaller molecules that can be used by the rest of the cell. Finally the Lysosomes are involved with the breakdown of organelles that have outlived their usefulness, in other words the Lysosomes are like the cleaning crew of the cells.
The Mitochondria is an oval shaped organelle which is infolded many times because it has a double membrane which forms a series of tunnels inside called Cistae which gives it its unique appearance that is shown on cell diagrams. The mitochondria is scattered across the cell as its function is to produce energy for the cell to ensure that most parts of the cell receives energy and not just one part, which basically means it’s the power-station of the cell.
The Nuclear Membrane surrounds the nucleus by enclosing and separating it from the cytoplasm. It also controls what enters and leaves the nucleus.
The Nucleus is a spherical body in the centre of the cell containing many