Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the functional anatomy of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, based on the lecture notes provided.

What defines a prokaryotic cell?

A prokaryotic cell has one circular chromosome, no histones or organelles, and divides by binary fission.

What is the function of the glycocalyx?

The glycocalyx helps in adherence to surfaces and can protect the cell from phagocytosis.

Describe the main parts of a flagellum.

A flagellum consists of three parts: the filament, the hook, and the basal body.

What type of bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer?

Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer.

What is an axial filament?

An axial filament, also known as an endoflagellum, is found in spirochetes and helps the cell move in a corkscrew motion.

What are the characteristics of eukaryotic ribosomes?

Eukaryotic ribosomes are 80S, made up of 60S and 40S subunits, and can be either membrane-bound or free in the cytoplasm.

What is the role of the nucleus in eukaryotic cells?

The nucleus houses the cell's DNA and is surrounded by a double membrane, the nuclear envelope.

How do gram-negative and gram-positive cell walls differ?

Gram-negative cell walls have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane, while gram-positive cell walls have a thick peptidoglycan layer without an outer membrane.

Define osmosis in the context of cellular processes.

Osmosis is the movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of lower concentration.

What is the significance of the endosymbiotic theory?

The endosymbiotic theory suggests that eukaryotes evolved from larger bacterial cells engulfing smaller ones, leading to the formation of organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.