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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Cytoplasm and Cytosol?

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The cytoplasm and cytosol are both essential components of a cell, but they have distinct differences:

  • Cytoplasm is the substance between a cell's membrane (its outside layer) and its nucleus (its core). It is the cell component present inside the cell membrane and includes all the cell organelles. Cytoplasm is composed of soluble ions, water, and other molecules that support cellular functions.
  • Cytosol is the fluid part of the cytoplasm. It is the intracellular fluid present within the cytoplasm, surrounding the cell organelles in eukaryotes. In prokaryotes, all the metabolic reactions occur in the cytosol.

In summary, while cytosol is the fluid contained within the cell's cytoplasm, the cytoplasm is the entire content within the cell membrane, including organelles and other parts that float in the cytosol.

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  • What is the Difference Between Cytoplasm and Cytosol?
  • Comparative Table: Cytoplasm vs Cytosol

    • Comparative Table: Cytoplasm vs Cytosol

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between cytoplasm and cytosol:

    Feature Cytoplasm Cytosol
    Definition The cytoplasm is the entire content within the cell membrane, excluding the nucleus. It includes cytosol, organelles, vesicles, and cytoskeleton. The cytosol is the fluid part of the cytoplasm, containing substances such as water, ions, enzymes, proteins, and carbohydrates.
    Composition Cytoplasm is composed of a gel-like substance that surrounds the cell organelles and the cytosol. Cytosol is a fluid present in the cell membrane and does not include the part of the cell found inside the cell organelles.
    Function The cytoplasm is involved in large cellular activities such as glycolysis or nuclear division. The cytosol is often considered the "matrix" of the cytoplasm and is involved in various cellular functions, particularly in the eukaryotes.

    In summary, cytoplasm encompasses both cytosol and organelles, while cytosol specifically refers to the liquid portion of the cytoplasm.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.