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Cell

Definition(s)

The smallest units of living structure capable of independent existence, composed of a membrane-enclosed mass of protoplasm and containing a nucleus or nucleoid. Cells are highly variable and specialized in both structure and function, though all must at some stage replicate proteins and nucleic acids, utilize energy, and reproduce themselves.

Definition from: Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. (NCI Thesaurus)   at the National Library of Medicine

The basic unit of any living organism. It is a small, watery, compartment filled with chemicals and a complete copy of the organism's genome.

Definition from: National Human Genome Research InstituteThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Institutes of Health

Related discussion in the Handbook

 
Published: May 9, 2008