logo
AAT Bioquest

What are the functions of cytoplasm?

Posted June 16, 2022


Answer

The cytoplasm is the viscous, gel-like substance found enclosed within the plasma membrane. In both animal and plant cells, the cytoplasm performs a wide range of vital functions: 

●       Provides structure to the cell and prevents the cell membrane from collapsing

●       Provides an appropriate medium for the organelles to remain suspended

●       Is the primary site for most of the cell’s enzymatic reactions and metabolic activities 

●       Is the site for multiple cellular processes including protein synthesis, mitosis, meiosis, and glycolysis 

●       Is the main site where cell growth and expansion occur

●       Acts as a buffer, protecting the cellular organelles and genetic material from potential damage caused due to movement of the cells or cells colliding into one another 

●       Plays a role in creating order in the cell by providing specific locations for each organelle

●       Facilitates the movement of hormones and materials around the cell

●       Contains monomers that are the precursors of the cytoskeleton, which is crucial for giving cells a specialized shape

●       Dissolves cellular waste

The cytoplasm performs an additional function in plant cells. It facilitates cytoplasmic streaming, which helps position chloroplasts in close proximity to the plasma membrane in order to optimize photosynthesis and the distribution of nutrients throughout the cell

Additional resources

Cytoplasm's Got Moves

ReadiPrep™ Nuclear/Cytoplasmic Fractionation Kit