cytoplasmas

Cytoplasmas, commonly referred to as cytoplasm, refer to the contents of cells outside the nucleus in eukaryotes and to the entire interior of the cell in prokaryotes. In eukaryotic cells the cytoplasm lies between the plasma membrane and the nuclear envelope; in prokaryotes, the cytoplasm comprises all cellular material inside the plasma membrane. It consists of cytosol, the gel-like fluid, plus membrane-bound organelles (in eukaryotes), and a network of protein filaments known as the cytoskeleton. The term protoplasm is sometimes used to describe the living contents of the cell as a whole.

Main components: Cytosol is primarily water with dissolved ions, small molecules, and soluble enzymes. It hosts many metabolic pathways, including glycolysis. Organelles such as mitochondria (and chloroplasts in plants and algae), the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and peroxisomes are suspended in the cytoplasm and carry out specialized functions. Ribosomes, the sites of protein synthesis, occur freely in the cytosol or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. The cytoskeleton—composed of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules—provides cell shape, anchors organelles, and drives movement.

Functions: The cytoplasm serves as the workspace for many cellular reactions, facilitates transport of molecules, supports intracellular signaling, and helps maintain cell structure and mechanical resilience. In plants and some protists, cytoplasmic streaming distributes nutrients and signaling molecules, contributing to overall cellular efficiency.

Properties: The cytoplasm is a crowded, dynamic, heterogeneous environment where macromolecular crowding influences biochemical reactions. Its pH, ionic strength, and energy status adapt to cellular needs, allowing rapid responses to environmental and developmental cues.