Do you play an instrument in a band, compete on a sports team, or are part of another group? On a team, every member contributes to the success, or failure, of the group. The same is true of our cells. Each part of our cells, including organelles, structural components, and proteins, must function properly in order to survive and maintain health. What happens if one part of a cell doesn't function properly? The whole cell malfunctions and problems result. The problems can be minor or can lead to life-threatening diseases.