Cytoplasmic

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Cytoplasmic refers to anything pertaining to the cytoplasm, the jelly-like substance within a cell that contains all the cell's organelles, except the nucleus. The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in a cell's survival; it is where most cellular activities occur, such as many metabolic pathways including glycolysis, and processes such as cell division.

Structure and Composition[edit | edit source]

The cytoplasm is made up of three main components: the cytosol, the organelles, and various inclusions. The cytosol is the liquid portion of the cytoplasm and is mostly water, but it also contains some floating molecules like proteins and organelles. The organelles are the cell's internal sub-structures, each with specific functions, such as the mitochondria, which produces energy for the cell. Inclusions refer to small particles of insoluble substances suspended in the cytosol.

Functions[edit | edit source]

The cytoplasm has several functions in the cell. It is a medium for the transport of molecules around the cell, and it provides a platform upon which cellular activities can occur. It also contains the nutrients for the cell to use, and it helps to maintain the cell's shape and structure.

Cytoplasmic Processes[edit | edit source]

Several important processes occur in the cytoplasm. These include:

  • Protein Synthesis: The cytoplasm is the site where proteins are synthesized in the cell. This process involves the translation of genetic code from the nucleus into proteins by ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
  • Glycolysis: This is the process by which glucose is broken down to produce energy. It occurs in the cytoplasm and results in the production of ATP, the cell's main energy source.
  • Cell Division: The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in cell division. It is where the cell's genetic material is duplicated and separated into two new cells.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Cytoplasmic Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD