Chromosomes are the genetic material present in the nucleus. It contains DNA with associated proteins. They are present as threads called chromatin. During the growth phase of the cell, the chromatin condenses into a much thicker structure called a chromosome. Human cells contain 23 pairs of chromosomes (46).
Chromatin
Chromatin is a thread-like structure which serves as the genetic material present inside the nucleus of the cell. It is made up of DNA and protein molecules. DNA contains the hereditary information needed for the structure and function of the organism.
Cytoplasm
The cytoplasm is the fluid found inside the cell. It gives the structure to the cell and houses different organelles of the cell.
Organelles
Organelles are structures present in the cytoplasm of the cell that helps in several functions of the cell.
Endoplasmic Reticulum
The endoplasmic reticulum is a membrane-bound cell organelle that plays an integral role in the interpretation of the genetic information present in the nucleus.
Rough ER
Rough ER are the ones that have ribosomes on them. The ribosome is made up of nucleic acids and proteins. They are the site of protein synthesis. The Rough ER is also involved in the modification and folding of proteins.
Smooth ER
Smooth ER do not have ribosomes and thus are not involved in protein synthesis. They are, however, involved in lipid metabolism and detoxifying of poisonous molecules.
Golgi Apparatus
Golgi Apparatus is also called the post office of the cell. They package and transport the proteins across the cytoplasm.
Lysosomes
They are referred to as suicide bags of the cell as they contain potent enzymes that can digest a cell. Lysosomes also help in defence by attacking a foreign object.
Mitochondria
Mitochondria are also called the powerhouse of a cell. They generate ATP via the electron transport chain. They also have a DNA called mtDNA, which makes them a semi-autonomous organelle. Mitochondria can make their own proteins.
Plastids
There are various types of plastids in different cells based on the pigment they contain. The chloroplast is the plastid where photosynthesis occurs, they contain chlorophyll. Some of the other plastids are leucoplast and chromoplast. Leucoplasts store starch, oil and protein granules. Chloroplasts contain membranes known as thylakoids embedded in the stroma. Plastids also contain their own DNA and ribosomes.
Vacuoles
Vacuoles are large vesicles that hold water or air in them and give structural rigidity to the cell. Vacuoles are common in plant cells. In animals, the vacuoles are either very small or absent.
Comparison between plant & animal cells
Plants cells are different from animal cells structurally. Plant cells have cell walls and chloroplast which are missing in animal cells. Plants cells also have large vacuoles which are either very small or missing in animal cells. The nucleus is present at the centre of the cell in animal cells and at the periphery in plant cells.
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