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Cell
Cell Fundamental structural unit of all life. The cell consists primarily of an outer plasma membrane, which separates it from the environment; the genetic material (DNA), which encodes heritable information for the maintainance of life; and the cytoplasm, a heterogeneous assemblage of ions, molecules, and fluid.
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Cell
Fundamental structural unit of all life. The cell consists primarily of an outer plasma membrane, which separates it from the environment; the genetic material (DNA), which encodes heritable information for the maintainance of life; and the cytoplasm, a heterogeneous assemblage of ions, molecules, and fluid.
Plasma
The watery, liquid part of the blood in which the red blood cells, the white blood cells, and platelets are suspended.
Membrane
A flexible layer surrounding a cell, organelle (such as the nucleus), or other bodily structure. The movement of molecules across a membrane is strictly regulated in both directions.
Environment
The sum of the total of the elements, factors and conditions in the surroundings which may have an impact on the development, action or survival of an organism or group of organisms. The environment is as opposed to genetics. We are the product of our genetic inheritance and our environment.
Genetic
Hereditary. Having to do with the genes.
Cytoplasm
The living matter within a cell (excluding the nucleus) that is responsible for the function of the cell (for example, protein synthesis).
Heterogeneous
Dissimilar in type, and having different or opposing characteristics.
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Cell
Chromosome
A structural unit within a eukaryotic nucleus that carries genes. A chromosome consists of a long, continuous strand of DNA and associated proteins.
Cytoplasm
The living matter within a cell (excluding the nucleus) that is responsible for the function of the cell (for example, protein synthesis).
Clotting
The sealing of a blood vessel with coagulated blood.
Cardiac
Pertaining to the heart.
Consanguinity
Having a common ancestor, ie, being blood relatives. Mating between two first cousins, for example, can be termed a consanguineous mating and is indicated in a pedigree by a double bar between the two parents. Such mating can result in an increased frequency of offspring who are *homozygous* for a recessive autosomal trait possessed by both parents, eg cystic fibrosis.
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