Unit 1 lab - Building a cell

This is a model of an animal cell. I used several different materials set into a stone to represent the primary areas of a cell. I also created a small replica of the DNA portion of the cell.

First, here is a list of the the parts and their function in a cell that is represented in the model.

1) Nucleus: Controls metabolism, stores and processes genetic information. Also controls protein synthesis.

2) Nucleolus: Synthesizes rRNA and assembles ribosomes subunits.

3) Mitochondria: Produces ATP(energy) used by the cell.

4) Lysosomes: Removes damaged organelles or pathogens within the cell.

5) Golgi apparatus: Stores, changes, and packages secretory products. Also forms lysosomes.

6) Smooth E.R.: Lack ribosomes, synthesizes lipids and carbohydrates.

7) Rough E.R.: Has ribosomes, synthesizes secretory proteins.

8) Vacuole: Found in most plant cells and some animal cells. Provides a variety of secretory, excretory, and storage functions.

9) Cilia: Membrane extension that assist in movement of materials over the surface.

DNA model

1) Chromosome: Organized structures of DNA and proteins in the cell

2) Telomere: Region of repetitive DNA at the end of the chromosome. This also protects the end of the chromosome from destruction

3) DNA: Nucleic acid that contains our genetic "Blueprint".

4) Base Pairs: 2 nucleotides on opposite DNA or RNA strands connected by hydrogen bonds. Pairing is the mRNA be recognized by anticodons on transfer RNA during protein translation.

5) RNA: The single stranded region of the DNA. RNA is transcribed from DNA by enzymes called RNA polymerases. mRNA carries information from DNA to ribosomes.

6) Protein Synthesis is divided into 1) transcription. This is the production of RNA from a single strand of DNA. This takes place within the nucleus. 2) Translation is the assembly of a protein by ribosomes via information carried by RNA. This takes place in the cytoplasm.

This lab project allowed me to understand the cell. Although small, is essential to life. The cell, through DNA and RNA can continue to reproduce 60-70 times during its life cycle. I also discovered that there is a possible link to Telomere's and Cancer. I enjoyed this lab because i was able to take information from the book and apply it "hands on".

reference: Brady Book for Emergency Care