Structure and Composition of Cell Membrane
Despite differences in structure and function, all living cells in multicellular organisms are surrounded by a cell membrane. Just like the outer layer of the skin separates the body from its environment similarly, the cell membrane, also known as 'plasma membrane,' separates the inner content from its exterior environment.
Cell Membrane
The cell membrane is known by different names like plasma membrane or cytoplasmic membrane, or biological membrane. The term "cell membrane" was first introduced by C. Nageli and C. Cramer in the year 1855. Later on, in 1931, the term "plasmalemma" for cell membrane was given by J. Plowe. The cell membrane separates the cell's internal environment from the extracellular space. This separation allows the protection of cells from their environment.
Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes
The cell is defined as the basic structural and functional unit of life. The cell membrane bounds it. It is capable of independent existence.
Is this organelle found in prokaryotes, eukaryotes, or all cells?
![The image is an illustration of an animal cell, showcasing its various organelles and structures. Here is a detailed description of each component:
1. **Nucleus (Purple)**:
- The large, central structure is depicted in purple and is responsible for storing the cell's genetic material (DNA).
- The small circle within the nucleus is the nucleolus, which is involved in ribosome production.
2. **Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) (Blue)**:
- Surrounding the nucleus, the ER is a network of membranes. It is involved in protein and lipid synthesis.
- There are two types: rough ER (with ribosomes on its surface) and smooth ER (lacking ribosomes).
3. **Mitochondria (Orange)**:
- These are portrayed as oval structures with folded inner membranes, known as cristae.
- They are the powerhouse of the cell, generating ATP through cellular respiration.
4. **Golgi Apparatus (Green)**:
- Located near the ER, this series of stacked membranes modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or use within the cell.
5. **Lysosomes and Peroxisomes (not distinctly labeled)**:
- These small organelles are involved in digestion of macromolecules and breakdown of toxic substances, respectively.
6. **Cytoskeleton (not distinctly labeled)**:
- Fiber-like structures throughout the cytoplasm provide structural support and facilitate cell movement.
7. **Cell Membrane (Outer Boundary)**:
- The flexible boundary of the cell controls what enters and leaves the cell, maintaining the internal environment.
8. **Ribosomes (Small Dots)**:
- These small complexes, which can be free-floating or bound to the ER, are the sites of protein synthesis.
9. **Vesicles (Small Spheres)**:
- Membrane-bound sacs involved in transport within the cell.
This detailed image helps in understanding the complex inner workings of animal cells, highlighting the function and interaction of each organelle.](/v2/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcontent.bartleby.com%2Fqna-images%2Fquestion%2F918eb2c8-76c1-4441-8c84-2483e1175deb%2F6eaba41a-1bb3-4249-9c2d-bbac3c681b25%2Fqc8zcof_processed.png&w=3840&q=75)
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