cell

## What I do - Explain fundamental cellular processes and structures - Describe cell membrane function and transport - Analyze cellular energetics and metabolism - Interpret cell signaling mechanisms - Discuss cell division and reproduction - Connect cellular processes to organismal function ## When to use me - When learning about basic cell biology concepts - When explaining cellular mechanisms - When connecting molecular events to cellular outcomes - When studying cell-based diseases - When preparing educational content about cells ## Key Concepts ### Cell Membrane **Fluid Mosaic Model** - Phospholipid bilayer - Membrane proteins (integral, peripheral) - Cholesterol - Carbohydrate chains (glycocalyx) **Transport Mechanisms** - Passive diffusion: Small nonpolar molecules - Facilitated diffusion: Channels, carriers - Active transport: Pumps, ATP-dependent - Vesicular transport: Exocytosis, endocytosis ### Cellular Energetics ```python # ATP synthesis overview def cellular_respiration(): """Main energy production pathway.""" return { 'glycolysis': 'Glucose → 2 Pyruvate + 2 ATP', 'krebs_cycle': 'Acetyl-CoA → CO2 + electron carriers', 'etc': 'O2 + electrons → H2O + 34 ATP' } ``` ### Energy Carriers - ATP: Primary energy currency - NAD⁺/NADH: Electron carrier (catabolism) - NADP⁺/NADPH: Electron carrier (anabolism) - FAD/FADH₂: Electron carrier (mitochondria)