Cell Biology

Learn what the cytoplasmic matrix or cytosol is, its composition and properties, major cellular functions, and how it differs from cytoplasm and cytoskeleton.

Learn the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis, from death-receptor activation and DISC formation to caspase-8, executioner caspases, BID crosstalk, and regulation.

Learn how the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis is triggered and regulated, from BCL-2 proteins and MOMP to cytochrome c release, apoptosome formation, caspase-9, and cell death.

Learn what platelets (thrombocytes) are, how they are formed, their structure and functions, normal platelet count, and their role in hemostasis and blood clotting.

Storage granules are bacterial cell inclusions that store carbon, phosphate, sulfur, and nitrogen reserves. Learn their types, structure, functions, formation, and identification.

Cilia are membrane-covered, microtubule-based projections that extend from the surface of many eukaryotic cells. Motile cilia generate movement of cells, fluids, or particles, whereas most primary cilia function as specialized sensory and signaling compartments. Their structure centers on an axoneme anchored to the cell by a basal body. What Are Cilia? Cilia are short hair-like

Learn the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane, including its definition, structure, components, features, membrane fluidity, evidence, limitations and modern modifications.

Learn what cell proliferation is, how the cell cycle and growth signals regulate it, how it differs from cell growth, and why it matters in development, tissue repair, and cancer.

Learn what the cell coat or glycocalyx is, its structure and composition, how it forms on the plasma membrane, and its major functions in protection, recognition and cell interactions.

Learn what mitosis is, how chromosomes move through each stage, the role of the mitotic spindle and cytokinesis, and how mitosis differs from meiosis.