Download Cells (1-3)

Objectives for Unit 1:
Cell Structure and Function (Chapters 1 - 3)
1. Understand homeostasis and the difference between positive and negative regulation; know
the meanings of the following basic anatomical terms: anatomical position, cranial/caudal,
medial/lateral, proximal/distal, anterior (ventral) / posterior (dorsal), superior/inferior, frontal,
sagittal, and transverse planes, dorsal and ventral body cavities
2. Describe the difference between hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances, ionic and covalent
bonds, and what makes a solution an electrolyte solution. Know the factors that determine if a
particle can diffuse through the plasma membrane or not.
3. Describe the important chemical characteristics and functions of the following compounds:
carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, high energy compounds, vitamins, minerals, and
water.
4. Identify examples of prototypical sugars, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
5. Describe the role of enzymes in metabolism.
6. Describe the properties of cell membranes, including composition, structure, function, and the
fluid mosaic model.
7. Describe the location, structure, and function of each of the following organelles: nucleus,
nucleolus, endoplasmic reticulum (rough and smooth), Golgi complex, mitochondria,
lysosomes, peroxisomes, ribosomes, centrioles, cilia, and microvilli. Be able to identify each
structure in a diagram, on a model, or in a micrograph.
8. Describe the processes of passive transport (diffusion, dialysis, and osmosis), active transport
(primary and secondary), endocytosis (phagocytosis ans pinocytosis), and exocytosis.
9. Define and explain the terms: hypotonic, hypertonic, isotonic, hemolysis, crenation, and
explain their importance in cells.
10. Diagram the cell cycle and explain the key events in each phase: G0 G1, S, G2, and M.
11. Diagram the stages of mitosis including cytokinesis, and describe the events that occur in
each of the four major stages (PMAT)
12. Understand the basic processes of DNA replication and transcription, including the enzymes
required and the chemical compositions of DNA and RNA.
13. Describe how proteins are synthesized including the role of mRNA, tRNA, rRNA, amino
acids, and the ribosomes. Discuss the nature and the importance of the genetic code.
14. Understand the definition of cancer, its stages, and the mechanisms that can lead to its
formation.