Mammalian cells contain numerous organelles, each performing specific functions vital to the cell's survival and activity. Some of the key organelles include:
- Nucleus: The control center of the cell, housing genetic material (DNA) and regulating gene expression. - Mitochondria: Known as the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondria generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. - Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): There are two types, rough ER (studded with ribosomes and involved in protein synthesis) and smooth ER (involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification processes). - Golgi Apparatus: Responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles. - Lysosomes: Contain enzymes that digest cellular waste, pathogens, and damaged organelles.
