Cell 3D
Cell 3D is a free interactive simulation from StudyFi Lab. It runs right in your browser, with no sign-up and nothing to install.
Plant and animal cell, organelle by organelle
What you can explore
Cell membrane
A phospholipid bilayer with proteins that encloses the cell and controls what enters and leaves it (selective permeability).
Cytoplasm
The contents of the cell between the membrane and the nucleus: the watery cytosol plus the organelles. Many metabolic reactions, such as glycolysis, happen here.
Nucleus
Stores the genetic information (DNA in chromatin) and controls the cell by directing which proteins are made.
Nucleolus
A dense region inside the nucleus where ribosomal RNA is made and ribosome subunits are assembled.
Nuclear envelope
A double membrane around the nucleus. Its nuclear pores let RNA and proteins pass between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Rough endoplasmic reticulum
A network of flattened sacs studded with ribosomes. It makes proteins for membranes and for secretion and sends them on to the Golgi apparatus.
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
A network of tubules without ribosomes. It makes lipids and steroid hormones, breaks down toxins and stores calcium ions.
Golgi apparatus
A stack of flattened sacs (cisternae) that modifies, sorts and packages proteins and lipids into vesicles for secretion or for lysosomes.
Mitochondria
The site of cellular respiration: they break down nutrients with oxygen and store the energy in ATP. They have their own DNA and ribosomes.
Ribosomes
Tiny particles of RNA and protein that build proteins from amino acids according to mRNA (translation). They are not enclosed by a membrane.
Lysosomes
Membrane sacs full of digestive enzymes that break down worn-out organelles, food particles and bacteria taken in by the cell.
Peroxisomes
Small membrane sacs that break down fatty acids and toxic substances. Their enzyme catalase splits harmful hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
Centrioles
A pair of short cylinders made of nine triplets of microtubules. They help organise the mitotic spindle during cell division and form the base of cilia and flagella.
Cytoskeleton
A network of protein fibres (microfilaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules) that gives the cell its shape, moves organelles and lets the cell move and divide.
Vesicles
Small membrane bubbles that carry substances inside the cell — e.g. from the ER to the Golgi — and release them out of the cell (exocytosis) or take them in (endocytosis).
Cell wall
A firm layer outside the membrane, made mainly of cellulose in plants. It gives the cell its shape and protects it from bursting when water enters.
Chloroplasts
Plastids with the green pigment chlorophyll where photosynthesis happens: light energy is used to make glucose from carbon dioxide and water, releasing oxygen. Chlorophyll sits in thylakoids stacked into grana.
Central vacuole
A large sac filled with cell sap, enclosed by a membrane called the tonoplast. It stores water, ions and pigments, keeps the cell firm (turgor) and breaks down waste.
Plasmodesmata
Narrow channels through the cell walls that link the cytoplasm of neighbouring plant cells, so water, nutrients and signals can pass between them.
Nucleoid
The region of a bacterial cell where its circular DNA lies. Unlike a nucleus, it is not enclosed by any membrane.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cell 3D?
Cell 3D is a free interactive simulation from StudyFi Lab. It runs right in your browser, with no sign-up and nothing to install. Plant and animal cell, organelle by organelle
Is Cell 3D free?
Yes. Cell 3D is completely free. It works in the browser on computers, tablets and phones, and you do not need an account.
What can I explore in Cell 3D?
Cell membrane, Cytoplasm, Nucleus, Nucleolus, Nuclear envelope, Rough endoplasmic reticulum, Smooth endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, Mitochondria, Ribosomes, Lysosomes, Peroxisomes, Centrioles, Cytoskeleton, Vesicles, Cell wall, Chloroplasts, Central vacuole, Plasmodesmata, Nucleoid.
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