Cellular

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Cellular refers to the characteristics and functions of cells, the basic structural and functional units of all known living organisms. Cellular processes are the biochemical mechanisms that occur within cells to maintain life and carry out essential functions.

Cellular Structure[edit | edit source]

The structure of a cell is primarily composed of cytoplasm, which is enclosed within a cell membrane. The cytoplasm contains various specialized structures known as organelles, each with specific functions. These include the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and peroxisomes.

Cellular Processes[edit | edit source]

Cellular processes include cell division, cell growth, cell differentiation, and cell death. These processes are regulated by the cell cycle, a series of events that lead to cell division and duplication.

Cellular Communication[edit | edit source]

Cellular communication is a vital aspect of cellular function. Cells communicate with each other through signal transduction, a process where a signal is transmitted through a cell as a series of molecular events, most commonly protein phosphorylation catalyzed by protein kinases, eventually leading to a cellular response.

Cellular Energy[edit | edit source]

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells obtain energy from glucose. This process includes glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain.

Cellular Genetics[edit | edit source]

The genetics of a cell are determined by the DNA contained within the cell's nucleus. The DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into proteins. This process is known as the central dogma of molecular biology.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD