Cell Types and Endosymbiosis

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell types, the structure and function of membranes, and the endosymbiotic theory as discussed in the lecture.

What are the two main types of cells that make up living organisms?

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

What function does the plasma membrane serve in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

It separates the internal environment from the surrounding environment.

What is a distinguishing feature of eukaryotic cells compared to prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells have internal membrane-bound organelles and a membrane-bound nucleus.

How did the nucleus and other internal membranes of eukaryotic cells evolve?

They are theorized to have formed from the infoldings of the plasma membrane.

What is endosymbiosis?

A theory that explains how free-living prokaryotes were engulfed by another cell and evolved into organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.

What type of cell did mitochondria evolve from according to endosymbiosis?

A free-living aerobic prokaryote.

How does a mutually beneficial relationship occur between the engulfed prokaryotic cell and the host eukaryotic cell?

The aerobic bacteria provide energy through oxygen, while the anaerobic cell provides nutrients.

What is one piece of evidence supporting the endosymbiotic theory regarding mitochondria and chloroplasts?

Both have double membranes that regulate material passage and stabilize their internal environment.

What type of DNA do mitochondria and chloroplasts contain?

Circular DNA similar to that of prokaryotic cells.

What do mitochondria and chloroplasts have that is similar to prokaryotic cells?

Both contain their own ribosomes that produce proteins.

What does the theory of endosymbiosis suggest about the evolution of organelles?

A free-living prokaryote was engulfed by a cell and lost its independent functionality over time.

What were the two conditions necessary for the evolution of mitochondria and chloroplasts in terms of cell relationships?

The engulfed cell provided energy, while the host cell provided protection.