Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Genetics

📋 Course Outline

1. Cell Structure and Function
2. Signalling Pathways
3. Cell Cycle and Mitosis
4. Biological Macromolecules
5. Enzyme Mechanisms
6. Bioenergetics and Metabolism
7. Genetic Inheritance and Disorders
8. DNA Replication and Repair
9. Gene Expression Regulation
10. Evolutionary Principles
11. Ecological Concepts and Biomes

📖 1. Cell Structure and Function

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Prokaryotic Cells: Simple, unicellular organisms lacking a nucleus; include bacteria and archaea.
• Eukaryotic Cells: Complex cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; found in plants, animals, fungi.
• Cell Membrane: Phospholipid bilayer controlling substance exchange; also called plasma membrane.
• Organelles: Specialized structures within eukaryotic cells (e.g., nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts).
• Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Network of membranes; rough ER has ribosomes, smooth ER synthesizes lipids.
• Mitochondria: Powerhouses of the cell; site of ATP production via oxidative phosphorylation.
• Cell Cycle: Series of events leading to cell division; includes stages of mitosis and meiosis.
• Signal Transduction: Process of cell communication via signaling pathways like endocrine (hormonal) and paracrine (local).
• Extracellular Matrix (ECM): Network outside cells providing structural support and signaling cues.
• Apoptosis: Programmed cell death, essential for development and tissue…