BIOCHEMISTRY

Cell composition – Cell chemical composition

Cell composition: The organic and inorganic substances that are part of the chemical composition of the cell ensure the proper functioning of this functional unit of living beings.

All living beings have molecules and elements that are essential for their composition and metabolism. It is a wide variety of organic and inorganic substances that are part of this composition. Here we will know a little about these substances.

→ Organic substances

Proteins : present in all cellular structures. They are made up of amino acids and their presence is essential for the body’s metabolism . Proteins form enzymes ;

Vitamins: can be water soluble (water soluble) or fat soluble (lipid soluble). They are needed in small amounts by the body, and their lack can cause illness. Vitamins are acquired through a varied diet.

Carbohydrates or Glycides or Sugars: they are fundamental, because they give energy to the cells and the organism. There are three types: monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides. Some have structural function, such as cellulose and chitin; and reserve, such as starch and glycogen.

Lipids: insoluble in water, they act as an energy reserve, thermal insulator, etc. They are classified into glycerides, waxes, steroids, phospholipids and carotenoids. They make up cellular structures.

→ Cell composition Inorganic substances 

Mineral salts: formed by ions. Some of its functions are: forming the skeleton, participating in blood clotting, transmission of nerve impulses, etc. Its lack can affect metabolism and lead to death.

Water: substance found in greater quantity in living beings. It can dissolve various substances, so it is classified as a universal solvent. In the human body, it represents about 70% of body weight. It participates in numerous chemical reactions in our body. Water is essential for life!

inside of the cell Cell composition

Although there are different types of cells, most of them have the same components. A cell has a nucleus and a cytoplasm, and is bounded by the cell membrane that regulates what happens inside and outside of it .. The nucleus contains the chromosomes that make up the cell’s genetic material, as well as a nucleolus that produces ribosomes. Ribosomes produce proteins, which the Golgi apparatus compacts so that they can leave the cell. The cytoplasm is made up of fluid material and cellular organelles, which can be considered the organs of the cell. The endoplasmic reticulum transports materials within the cell. Mitochondria generate the energy needed for cellular activities. Lysosomes contain enzymes that can break down particles that enter the cell. Centrioles participate in cell division.

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