BIO1011 Week 4 - Building Life: The Evolution of Complex Cells

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the evolution of complex cells, their structures, and functions.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes.

Prokaryotic Cells

Single-celled organisms that do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

Endomembrane System

A network of membranes inside eukaryotic cells that modify, package, and transport lipids and proteins.

Mitochondria

Organelles that produce energy through aerobic respiration, evolved from bacterial endosymbiosis.

Endosymbiosis

The evolutionary theory that explains how eukaryotic cells evolved from prokaryotic cells through a symbiotic relationship.

Signal Sequence

Short stretches of amino acids that direct proteins to their appropriate location within or outside of cells.

Compartmentalization

The formation of membrane-bound compartments within cells, allowing for specialized functions.

LECA (Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor)

The most recent common ancestor of all eukaryotic organisms.

FECA (First Eukaryotic Common Ancestor)

The most ancient organism considered a eukaryote and the ancestor of all current eukaryotic life.

Nucleus

An organelle that contains genetic material and regulates gene expression in eukaryotic cells.