Pathophysiology - The Functional Organization of the Cell

■ Cells are the smallest functional unit of the
body. They contain structures that are strikingly
similar to those needed to maintain total body
function.
■ The nucleus is the control center for the cell. It
also contains most of the hereditary material.
■ The organelles, which are analogous to the organs
of the body, are contained in the cytoplasm. They
include the mitochondria, which supply the energy
needs of the cell; the ribosomes, which synthesize
proteins and other materials needed for cell function;
and the lysosomes and proteosomes, which
function as the cell’s digestive system.
■ The cell membrane encloses the cell and provides
for intracellular and intercellular communication,
transport of materials into and out of the
cell, and maintenance of the electrical activities
that power cell function.