Cytoplazma

Cytoplazma, also called cytoplasm, is the material inside a cell, exclusive of the nucleus. In eukaryotic cells it lies within the plasma membrane and outside the nucleus, whereas in prokaryotic cells the cytoplasm fills the cell interior. The cytoplasm is usually described as consisting of the cytosol—the gel-like aqueous phase—and the organelles, ribosomes, and other inclusions suspended in it. Cytosol is an aqueous solution containing water, ions, small molecules, and soluble enzymes that drive many metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis. It also hosts free ribosomes and a dynamic cytoskeleton that supports cell shape and internal transport.

Organelles such as mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and peroxisomes reside in the cytoplasm. Plant and algal cells also contain chloroplasts. In many cells the cytoplasm contains lipid droplets, glycogen or starch granules, pigments, and other inclusions. The boundary between cytoplasm and nucleus is the nuclear envelope; between cytoplasm and exterior is the plasma membrane.

Functions: The cytoplasm provides a medium for biochemical reactions, organizes cellular components, and enables intracellular transport. The cytoskeleton supports cell shape, anchors organelles, and facilitates movement. Cytoplasmic streaming, observed in some plant cells, helps distribute nutrients and organelles. The cytoplasm is involved in signal transduction and in maintaining ion balance and pH.

In summary, the cytoplasm (cytoplazma) encompasses the fluid cytosol together with the organelles and inclusions that carry out or support a cell’s metabolism and structure.