1. The liquid component of the cytoplasm of a cell, excluding organelles and other suspended particles.
Usage: biology; cell biology

Examples

• The cytosol contains dissolved proteins, ions, and glucose that support cellular metabolism.
• Many enzymes function within the cytosol to catalyze important biochemical reactions.
• Ribosomes floating freely in the cytosol synthesize proteins for use throughout the cell.
• The cytosol maintains the osmotic balance necessary for the cell to function properly.
• During glycolysis, glucose is broken down in the cytosol to produce energy.
• Organelles are suspended in the cytosol, which fills the space between them.