1. have an evolutionary origin - via chemical evolution probably from a LUCA
2. highly complex - mix of biomolecules (C, O, H, N) -> yields -> cellular structural complexity
as seen in electron micrographs: figure 1.7 & typical animal & plant cell diagrams [Panel 1]
cells occur in 2 fundamental cellplans - prokaryote & eukaryote
3. can self replicate themselves - Mitosis & Meiosis
4. acquire and utilize energy - via metabolic pathways: glycolysis, Krebs, ETC
cells obey laws of chemistry & physics (the laws of Universe)
5. cells metabolize - are capable of 1,000's of chemical eactions (via enzyme proteins)
6. capable of self regulation - series of ordered reactions that are self-adjusted;
division, growth, & differentiation leads to cellular Form & Function
7. osmoregulate - control what gets in/out of membranes (organelle or plasma)
8. are motile - involved in numerous mechanical activities including...
assembly, disassembly, movement of organelles, & motor proteins
9. respond to stimuli - via cell surface receptors (paracrine vs. endocrine)
10. cells die - absence of life is a defining characteristic of living
*now
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