cytosolit

Cytosolit, also known as the cytosol, is the soluble, jelly‑like fluid component of the cytoplasm in cells. It represents the aqueous interior of the cell in which organelles and the cytoskeleton are suspended. The cytosol is bounded by the plasma membrane and is distinct from the membrane-bound organelles contained within the cell.

The cytosol is primarily water but contains a high concentration of dissolved ions, small molecules, and a large array of soluble proteins. It hosts many metabolic enzymes and serves as the main medium for numerous biochemical reactions, including glycolysis and parts of intermediary metabolism. Because of its crowded environment, the cytosol supports macromolecular interactions and phase‑separated compartments that help regulate biochemical processes.

Functions commonly associated with the cytosol include metabolic activity, signal transduction, and the transport of small molecules within the cell. It also provides a working space for ribosomes that translate cytosolic proteins and for the movement of enzymes and substrates during metabolic pathways. The cytoskeleton resides within the cytosol and provides structure, mechanical support, and tracks for intracellular transport.

In prokaryotes, the cytosol encompasses essentially the entire cytoplasm since there are no membrane‑bound organelles. In eukaryotic cells, the cytosol coexists with organelles, which are separate by membranes; the term cytosol specifically refers to the fluid portion, excluding the organelles themselves.