Basic Structure and Functions of Key Organelles

Describe the basic structure and functions of key cell organelles (nucleus, Golgi, ER, mitochondria, chloroplast, vacuoles, plasma membrane).

Nucleus - Houses the genetic information [DNA] of the cell. This is a circular structure usually located in the center of a cell, it is made of chromatin [tightly wound up DNA]

Golgi Apparatus - Modifies, stores, and reroutes materials sent over from the ER. This is a sort of wavy structure (which is located near the ER and nucleus) that is made of membranous sacs stacked up on top of eachother.

Endoplasmic Reticulum - Two kinds:

Smooth ER - Synthesizes lipids, metabolizes carbs, detoxifies drugs/poisons, and stores calcium ions [in Lumen]. It is more tubular than the rough ER and located throughout the cytoplasm.

Rough ER - Folds [in Lumen], assesses the quality of [also in lumen], and packages/reroutes proteins. This is a convoluted flat sac that is continuous with the nuclear membrane. Most of these are located around the nucleus as a result.

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/smooth-endoplasmic-reticulum-function.html

Mitochondria - Generates ATP and is the main power provider of a cell. This organelle has a double membrane, the inner membrane has many folds called cristae which function to produce ATP.Fun Fact: Mitochondria can trigger cell death by releasing certain enzymes.

Chloroplast - Double membraned plastid cell; this organelle is only found in plant cells and is the site of photosynthesis. It converts light energy into ATP. These organelles are green in color because of the green chlorophyll they contain, and have stacks of thylakoids that capture sunlight and convert it into usable power.

http://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/plant-cells-chloroplasts-and-cell-walls-14053956

Vacuoles - These organelles are mostly storage units. They store wastes [and also dispose of wastes], excess material, proteins, pigment, and also defensive compounds. They are usually bubble-like structurally and larger in plant cells than in animal cells, to provide structure and rigidity.

Plasma Membrane - A semipermeable membrane that functions as a barrier between the inside and outside of a cell. This regulates what enters and exits the cell.