Cytosol

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Cytosol

Cytosol (/ˈsaɪtoʊˌsɒl/), also known as intracellular fluid or cytoplasmic matrix, is the liquid found inside cells. It is separated into compartments by membranes. For example, the mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum are suspended in the cytosol.

Etymology

The term "cytosol" is derived from the Greek words "kytos" meaning "hollow" or "cell" and "sol" meaning "solution". It was first used in the mid-20th century to describe the liquid component of the cell.

Function

The cytosol plays a crucial role in the functioning of the cell. It is where many metabolic reactions occur, including protein synthesis, the breakdown of sugars to provide energy (glycolysis), and the production of small molecules used in other cellular reactions (biosynthesis).

Composition

The cytosol is composed mainly of water, dissolved ions, small molecules, and large water-soluble molecules (such as proteins). The concentration of ions (such as potassium and chloride) is different in the cytosol than in the extracellular fluid; these differences in ion levels are important in processes such as osmoregulation, signal transduction, and maintaining the cell's resting potential.

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