Lesson 5---Eukaryotic Cells

What are the major differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

Eukaryotes have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotes do not.

What is the function of the nucleus in a eukaryotic cell?

The nucleus is the site of DNA replication, transcription, and RNA processing.

What is the role of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

The ER is involved in transport, storage, and processing of proteins (rough ER) and lipids (smooth ER).

What is the Golgi apparatus responsible for?

The Golgi apparatus modifies and ships proteins within the cell.

What is the function of ribosomes?

Ribosomes are staging areas for protein synthesis.

What is the mitochondrion's primary function?

Mitochondria generate energy for the cell through ATP production.

What do chloroplasts do?

Chloroplasts convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

What is the cytoskeleton?

The cytoskeleton is a flexible framework that anchors organelles and allows for movement and shape changes.

What is the structure of the plasma membrane?

The plasma membrane is a bilayer of phospholipids with embedded proteins, serving as a selectively permeable barrier.

How do eukaryotic flagella differ from prokaryotic flagella?

Eukaryotic flagella are thicker, covered by the cell membrane, and have a 9+2 arrangement of microtubules.

What are cilia and their function?

Cilia are shorter, numerous structures that aid in movement and feeding.

What is the composition of fungal cell walls?

Fungal cell walls are rigid and composed of chitin or cellulose, differing from prokaryotic cell walls.

What are the three major groups of eukaryotic microorganisms?

Fungi, protists, and helminths.

What are the characteristics of fungi?

Fungi are heterotrophic, have cell walls of chitin, and can be saprobes or pathogens.

What is a dimorphic fungus?

A dimorphic fungus can switch between yeast and mold forms depending on environmental conditions.

What are the two stages of protozoan life cycles?

Trophozoite (motile feeding stage) and cyst (dormant resting stage).

What are helminths?

Helminths are parasitic worms, including tapeworms, flukes, and roundworms.

What is the significance of the cyst stage in protozoa?

The cyst stage is resistant to harsh conditions and is important for disease transmission.

What is the primary pathogen characteristic of fungi?

Primary pathogens infect healthy individuals, while opportunistic pathogens infect immunocompromised individuals.

What is the function of hyphae in molds?

Hyphae are filaments that make up molds and can be septate or coenocytic.

What is mycelium?

Mycelium is a tangled network of hyphae that forms the body of fungi.

How do roundworms differ from flatworms?

Roundworms (nematodes) are unsegmented with a full digestive system, while flatworms (cestodes and trematodes) have a thin body plan.

What is the life cycle of helminths?

Helminths typically have stages including egg, larva, and adult.

What is the function of ergosterol in fungal membranes?

Ergosterol provides structural integrity to fungal cell membranes.

What is the significance of the 'scotch tape' test?

The 'scotch tape' test is used to detect pinworm infections.