General structure
Both cell types belong to eukaryotes and therefore share a common basic architecture. The internal environment is represented by the cytoplasm, which houses the organelles and the nucleus.
The nuclear apparatus includes the nucleus itself, the nucleolus, and the nuclear envelope.
Among common membranous organelles, the following are distinguished:
- Rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER).
- Golgi apparatus.
- Mitochondria (responsible for energy supply).
- Peroxisomes.
The non-membranous structures include ribosomes, as well as cytoskeletal elements: microtubules, actin filaments, and intermediate filaments. The internal contents of both cells are bounded by the plasma membrane.
Specific features of the plant cell
The main feature of the plant cell is the presence of a rigid cell wall, located external to the plasma membrane.
It consists of polysaccharides (primarily cellulose). The components of this shell are synthesized by the cell itself, then secreted from the cytoplasm and assembled already in the extracellular space.
The cell wall performs a number of crucial tasks:
- Serves as an external framework and provides structural support.
- Protects the cell contents.
- Provides turgor properties and regulates water exchange. The wall restricts excessive water influx: the resulting internal pressure (turgor) physically prevents further fluid entry.
To connect neighboring plant cells, special channels—plasmodesmata—pass through the cell walls.
The second major feature is the presence of plastids (chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts). Chloroplasts are specific organelles where, along with mitochondria, ATP synthesis takes place. ATP cleavage in plants can also occur directly within chloroplasts. The cell center is present only in lower plants.
Features of the animal cell
The animal cell lacks a dense cellulosic wall and plastids. ATP synthesis here proceeds exclusively in mitochondria, and cleavage occurs in any part of the cell where energy expenditure is required.
Among the structural features of the membrane, the presence of microvilli can be highlighted. In the cytoplasm of animal cells, there are lysosomes (organelles responsible for the intracellular breakdown of macromolecules) and centrioles, which form the cell center present in all animal cells (unlike higher plants).
Comparative characteristics of metabolism
Differences in structure are closely related to metabolism. Plants have an autotrophic type of nutrition (phototrophic or chemotrophic), while animals are heterotrophs (may lead a saprophytic or parasitic lifestyle).
This is also reflected in cellular inclusions—reserve substances that cells accumulate for future use.
| Sign | Plant cell | Animal cell |
|---|---|---|
| Reserve carbohydrates | Starch grains | Glycogen granules |
| Reserve fats | Oil droplets | Fat droplets |
| Specific inclusions | Vacuoles with cell sap, protein | Pigments, end products of metabolism |
Salt crystals may occur as inclusions in both cells.
Briefly: answers to topical questions
What is the structure of plant cell plasmodesmata?
Plasmodesmata are thin cytoplasmic channels that pass through plant cell walls. The lumen of each such channel is lined by the plasmalemma. The set of all cells connected by plasmodesmata forms a symplast.
Which specific proteins do intermediate filaments of the cytoskeleton consist of?
Intermediate filaments of the cytoskeleton consist of several specific proteins depending on the cell type. In muscle cells, they are formed by the protein desmin. In cells of mesenchymal origin, intermediate filaments consist of vimentin, and in epithelial cells, of keratins.
To remember the main differences, use the "three P's" rule for the plant cell: Plight cell wall (Dense wall), Plastids, Plasmodesmata.
Class and exam questions
Where is ATP synthesized in plant and animal cells?
In the animal cell, ATP is synthesized only in mitochondria. In the plant cell, this process occurs in both mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Do animal cells have a cell wall?
No, the animal cell is covered only by the plasma membrane. A cellulosic cell wall is a hallmark of plants.
Does the cell center occur in plants?
The cell center is present only in the cells of lower plants. In higher plants, it is absent, whereas in animals it is present in all cells.
What else to study on this topic
- Mechanism of turgor pressure generation
- Structure and functions of plasmodesmata
- Types of plastids: chloroplasts, leucoplasts, chromoplasts
- Organization of the eukaryotic cell cytoskeleton
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