Question

Define cell inclusion.

Answer 1

Hint:- In the cytoplasm of the cell, the fluid material called cytosol tethers together. All the components of the cell such as the cell inclusions and organelles like Golgi body, nucleus, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.

Complete Answer:-Cell inclusions can be defined as non-membrane bound, intracellular molecular aggregates in the cytoplasm present to serve the purpose of storage of granules of substances like lipids (in fat cells), glycogen (in liver and muscle cells), pigments (in hair and skin cells), crystals and other secretory products like digestive enzymes, mucus, hormones, fibrous proteins and acids (HCl).

When compared with cell organelles, cell inclusions are similar in the sense that both are cellular components embedded in the cytoplasm. However, the absence of membrane-bound nature and specific biochemical reaction related function differentiates cell inclusions from cell organelles primarily. Cell inclusions also do not possess the capability to self-replicate. Also, cell organelles are unique to eukaryotes while the cell inclusions, considered the non-living components are present in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. In the former, they have more of an essential function like the Glycogen and Lipid cell inclusions which are positioned near the smooth endoplasmic reticulum to be readily available to provide energy to the parts of the body when necessary. In prokaryotic cells, they are simple nutrient storage components.

Note:- Cell inclusions are also known as cytoplasmic inclusions or inclusion bodies or elementary bodies. They are generally formed when the pH of the cell plummets and the soluble fusion proteins from the organelles of the cell needs a place to go to. Sometimes, they can also be indicative of a disease like virus-mediated measles, herpes, etc.