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Cytology Facts

All living organisms share one basic trait on a molecular level: cells. A cell is the foundation for all life on the planet. Scientists attempt to understand cells by studying all of their properties. Called cytology, cell biology has several basic principles that many people learn during school.

Definition
- Cytology is the study of cells. The cell is a fundamental unit from which all living things are created. The science studies the physical and chemical properties of cells. Cytology also studies the interaction of cells with the outside environment, and other cells. Single cellular organisms such as bacteria, and multicellular organisms such as plants and animals, have properties that are examined in cytology.
Prokaryote and Eukaryote Cells
- Cells fall in two classifications: prokaryotes and eukaryotes. A prokaryote is a single-celled organism. Found in virtually all environments, prokaryote cells first appeared almost 4 billion years ago. Prokaryote cells have no nucleus and no membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryote cells are complex cells found in some single-celled and all multicellular organisms. It contains membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus with various genetic material.
Organelles
- A cell has a complex network of smaller material called organelles that have a specific function. Several common organelles are found in many types of cells. The cell nucleus in eukaryote cells usually contains three different organelles. Chromosomes are composed of DNA and contains genetic information. The nuclear membrane is a thin layer that protects the nucleus and all of its organelles. The nucleolus contains all of the RNA that is used to manufacture protein. Plant cells contain an organelle called chloroplast. The organelle contains the chlorophyll needed to initiate the photosynthesis process.
Cell Kingdoms
- According to ThinkQuest, "All living organisms are divided into five kingdoms: monera, protista, fungi, plantae and animalia." On a cellular level, each kingdom has specific cell characteristics. Fungi cells are distinct for having more than one nucleus per cell. Plant cells have large vacuoles and cell walls that are made of cellulose. Animals cells are the only type of cells that contain centrioles. Protist cells use their flagellum for movement. A moneran's genetic material is found in the cytoplasm instead of the nucleus.

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