Why Should We Study the Cell and Its Components?

Why Should We Study the Cell and Its Components?

Cells are the basics of life. The more we study cells, the more we will be able to understand life. The cell is the basic unit of life. It was discovered by Robert Hooke and is the functional unit of all known living organisms. The cell is the smallest unit of life that is classified as a living thing. All cells have a few things in common. They are all bounded by a thin outer membrane, called a plasma membrane. The plasma membrane regulates the traffic of molecules between the cell and its surrounding. All cells have DNA and ribosomes. Ribosomes are tiny structures that build proteins according to instructions from DNA. Also, our bodies contain about 100 trillion cells. Cells participate in many activities that are designated as vital functions (Mananatomy). Cells can take in nutrients, convert these nutrients into energy, carry out specialized functions, and reproduce as necessary. Finally, if we didn't study cells and their components, how would we know how our body functions?

While researching, I read several studies on stem cells that were very interesting. Stem cells serves as a sort of repair system for the body, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells as long as the person or animal is still alive. Stem cells are capable of becoming any type of cell when the body requires it and are able to regenerate quickly (Stem Cell Information, 2009). Studying stem cells will help us understand how they transform into the dazzling array of specialized cells that make us what we are. Some of the most serious medical conditions, such as cancer and birth defects, are due to problems that occur somewhere in this process. If we could better understand the normal cell development maybe one could find out what causes these medical conditions.

Cells fall into two categories prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotes are considered ancient. These cells are a simple construction, containing no nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotic cells are single celled organisms that are the earliest and most primitive forms of life on earth. Prokaryotes include bacteria and achaeans. Prokaryotes are able to live and thrive in many types of environments including extreme habitats such as hot springs, swamps, wetlands, and the guts of animals (Oracle Think Quest). Eukaryotic cells are the tiny units of life that make up your entire body. And most of the living things that we are familiar with are also composed of eukaryotic cells; animals, plants, and fungi (Boilogy@Suite101,2008).

In conclusion, the studying of cells and their components is very important. Doctors are studying and researching cells every day. If we didn't study cells and their components, we might not ever find cures to diseases. Also, we need to learn the functions