Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
- describe the integrated structure and function of the generalized eukaryotic cell
- describe the energy-utilizing machinery of the cell and discuss its role as an efficient recycling factory with organized and regulated inputs and outputs
- identify the structures of cell organelles and their chemical constitution
- discuss the functions of the various cell organelles, their intercommunication and their contribution to the overall functioning of the cell
Content
Topics include:
Evolution of the cell, emphasizing the increasing compartmentalization.
Assimilation of chloroplasts and mitochondria as energy converters.
Generalized cell construction and the structure and function of organelles.
Generalized membrane structure and the plant cell wall synthesis, construction and function.
Transport of ions and small molecules across the plasma membrane.
Cellular import and export of macromolecules.
Cell junctions and communication between cells.
Structure of the cytoskeletal constituents in relation to cellular motility and intracellular transport.
Nuclear structure and function in terms of replication of DNA and RNA synthesis.
Ribosome assembly and function in translation.
The Golgi apparatus and its role in protein targeting.
Lysosome structure and function in relation to recycling.
Social behaviour of cells and multicellularity.