frumunnar

Frumunnar is the Icelandic term used to refer to cells, the basic units of life in organisms. In biology, a cell is the smallest unit capable of independent life, enclosed by a membrane and containing cytoplasm and genetic material. In multicellular organisms, cells organize into tissues and organs and can specialize for different functions.

There are two broad categories of cells: prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Prokaryotic cells, found in bacteria and archaea, lack a defined nucleus and most membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists, have a defined nucleus and a more complex internal structure, including organelles such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. All cells carry genetic information in the form of DNA (and in some cases RNA) and rely on cellular processes to produce energy and synthesize biomolecules. The cell membrane regulates transport and communication with the environment.

Cell theory summarizes the modern understanding of cells: all living organisms are composed of one or more cells; the cell is the basic unit of structure and function; and new cells arise from preexisting cells.

In Icelandic science education, frumurnar are studied across disciplines such as anatomy, physiology, genetics, and biotechnology. The term also appears in discussions of cellular processes, disease, and development. See also cell, prokaryote, eukaryote, cell theory.