Squamous Cells National Cancer Institute

The cytoplasm is a component of cells that consists of all of the contents outside of the nucleus and enclosed within the cell membrane. It is a clear, gel-like substance that is composed mainly of water.

Substances that can be found within the cytoplasm include various organelles, enzymes, salts and several organic molecules. The cytoplasm helps to move materials around the cell and also dissolves cellular waste. Substances are able to move throughout the cytoplasm by a network of fibers known as the cytoskeleton.

Learn More About Cell Components:

• Cell Structure
  
• 10 Facts About Cells
  
• Animal Cells
  
• Cell Anatomy Quiz
  

It is common knowledge that keeping a clean environment is the best way to prevent the spread of germs. Researchers have suggested that ultra-clean environments however, may not be best for children. This type of environment prevents children from being exposed to common germs. This exposure is needed to ensure the development of an effective immune system later in life.

By constantly using antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers, parents may be inadvertently inhibiting immune network development in their children. Lead author of the study Thomas McDade states, "our research suggests that ultra-clean, ultra-hygienic environments early in life may contribute to higher levels of inflammation as an adult, which in turn increases risks for a wide range of diseases." The researchers contend that inflammatory systems require greater exposure to bacteria and other microbes for proper development.

Learn more about this study:

• Everyday Germs In Childhood May Prevent Diseases In Adulthood Science Daily

Trypanosoma cruzi CDC

Researchers have discovered that the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi survives inside its human host by preventing infected cells from triggering cell death. Trypanosoma cruzi causes a potentially life-threatening disease in humans known as Chagas' disease. It causes a life-long infection that is typically transmitted to humans by blood-sucking triatomine bugs.

According to researchers, these parasites release a protein called PDNF that inhibits the release of molecules that signal cell destruction in infected cells. This gives the parasite time to grow, develop and spread to other cells. It was also discovered that not only does PDNF inhibit cell death, but it also promotes the production of an enzyme that increases nutrient absorption. This further adds to the chances of survival for the parasite.

Learn more about this discovery:

• Parasite Evades Death by Promoting Host Cell Survival Science Daily

© Steve Berg

Can you identify the type of genetic cross that is shown in the image? This type of cross is used to identify the inheritance pattern of a single trait controlled by different alleles. This cross can be done between two individuals that are either homozygous or heterozygous for a single trait.

A. dihybrid
B. monohybrid
C. incomplete dominance
D. phenotype

Test your knowledge of Mendelian genetics. Take the Genetics Quiz! Need to brush up on genetics before taking the quiz? Visit:

• Mendel's Law of Segregation
  
• Independent Assortment