What is complex compartmentalization in a living cell?

Answer 1

Compartementalization is important because a cell's compartments provide different local environments that accomodate specific metabolic processes. This allows for incompatible process to go on simultaneously inside the same cell.

Answer 2

It is the division of function and separation of antagonizing components within living cells.

Within all living cells are different organelles which are in analogy, equivalent to the organs of the human body. While the levels of division may differ, for instance, simpler eukaryotic cells may only contain the nuclei and a few other organelles. Each division or organelle has its own distinct function or purpose. Despite these distinctions, the cell remains highly interconnected.

For example, the endoplasmic reticulum has a function that differs from the golgi apparatus, however, vesicles containing premature proteins must transit to both organelles in order to become mature.

Compartmentalization also separates antagonizing or the existence of harmful reactions. For example, the presence of hydrogen peroxide, as a reaction by-product, must be secluded in membrane-bound vesicles so as not to destroy surrounding material. Another example, is the separation of oxidizing material vs. reducing material. Under few circumstances should they be in the same space as a result of their potentially destructive reactions.

Answer 3

Cell compartmentalization is when organisms are separated, at the level of cells, bodies, or even communities, into separate volumes. This allows otherwise incompatible processes can take place.

Answer 4

Even though the cells in the human body are small, don't let that fool you. Just like the home that you live in, a cell has membranes that separate different rooms..or compartments. For example, the bathroom in your home, consider that a vacuole, and the kitchen, consider that the mitochondria. Let's see, where do the Christmas presents get wrapped...The den, consider that the Golgi apparatus.

Answer 5

Cells (and organelles within cells) are compartmentalised by a phospholipid bilayer to prevent unwanted interaction e.g. hydrolase is bound to a vesicle so that it can't hydrolyse (break down via addition of H2O) things that are necessary for life processes.

Cells are also compartmentalised in order to maintain a high surface area:volume ratio which is necessary for the passive diffusion of gasses into and out of cells. Organisms have to differentiate cells into specialised tissue in order to maintain this SA:V ratio, this is why organisms can't simply become bigger and bigger cells.