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Cell component

Cytosol

Cytosol

The aqueous phase of the cytoplasm outside membrane-enclosed organelles.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

Cytosol is the fluid part of the cytoplasm around many cell structures. It contains water, dissolved molecules, and proteins where many reactions take place. The cytoplasm also includes organelles, so cytoplasm is broader than cytosol.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
Key ideaFluid phase outside membrane-enclosed compartments

Follow the Connections

See how Cytosol links to other biological records.

Open network
Cell componentCytoplasmincludes
All 1 Structured Connections
Cytoplasm · Cell componentINCLUDES →Cytosol · Cell component

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Cytosol.

textbookThe Compartmentalization of CellsMolecular Biology of the Cell · NCBI Bookshelf textbookThe Universal Features of Cells on EarthMolecular Biology of the Cell · NCBI Bookshelf
Research Claims

Cytosolic composition is actively maintained and spatially heterogeneous. Crowding, phase behavior, local scaffolds, and organelle contacts can shape reaction kinetics and signaling.