Cell (biology)

Cell (biology)

A cell is the basic structural, functional, and biological unit of all known living organisms. Cells are the smallest unit of life that can replicate independently, and are often called the "building blocks of life". The study of cells is called cell biology.

Structure

Cells consist of cytoplasm enclosed within a cell membrane, which contains many biomolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. Most plant cells, bacteria and some algae have a cell wall in addition to the cell membrane.

Types of cells

There are two types of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Prokaryotic cells are usually singletons, while eukaryotic cells are usually found in multicellular organisms.

Cell functions

Cells perform a variety of functions, such as protein synthesis, energy production, and cell division. They also play a key role in immunity and communication within an organism.

History

The concept of the cell as the basic unit of life was first proposed in 1839 by Matthias Jakob Schleiden and Theodor Schwann. This theory is now universally accepted in the scientific community.

See also

• Cell culture
• Cell theory
• Cell cycle
• Cell division
• Cell membrane
• Cell wall