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Appendix 2: Cell Biology Primer<br />
Others in the food pipe do the same to let food material<br />
move smoothly down the gullet. Salivary gland cells in the<br />
mouth secrete saliva. Liver cells secrete bile. Nerve cells<br />
(neurons) manufacture neurotransmitters that conduct<br />
electrical signals.<br />
In plants, cells per<strong>for</strong>m similar functions – absorb water<br />
and nutrients from the soil, synthesize chlorophyll, trap<br />
sunlight and create food in seeds and spores. Walls of<br />
plant cells may be made up of cellulose fibres, which adds<br />
to their bulk and strength.<br />
All cells have a basic structure. A typical cell is made up<br />
of:<br />
1. Cell wall – encloses the cell; provides it a shape;<br />
separates it from other cells and the environment<br />
2. Plasma membrane – layer below the cell wall; acts<br />
as a gateway to material transport in and out of the<br />
cell<br />
3. Cytoplasm – jelly-like semi-fluid containing other cell<br />
components or organelles, namely:<br />
a) Nucleus – contains hereditary code of life in<br />
the <strong>for</strong>m of chromosomes or bundles of<br />
extremely long intertwined strands of<br />
dioxyribonucleic acid (DNA)<br />
b) Mitochondria – acts as the power house of a<br />
112 <strong>World</strong> Government Slave Handbook