Characteristics of Cells

Cell biologists continue to study and learn about the cell. Modern technology continues to improve microscopes which allows scientists to develop better techniques for studying the structure and processes of the cell.

Scientists recognize that cells are much more than just "tiny rooms." They understand that cells are alive and that they respond to stimuli. They know cells constantly change. They recognize that cells are able to manufacture new structures and produce new substances. Finally, they understand that cells often work together to form tissues, organs, and systems, which make living organisms.

Cells share several common characteristics:

• They are alive.
• They are enclosed in a membrane.
• They contain cytoplasm.
• They usually have one or more chromosomes.
• They can reproduce themselves.