Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells - Vocabulary Flashcards (Lecture Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts about prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells as described in the lecture notes.

Prokaryotic cells

Cells that lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; evolution of prokaryotes is at least 3.5 billion years old.

Nucleoid

Region in prokaryotes where genetic material (a single circular chromosome) resides; not surrounded by a membrane.

Histone proteins

Proteins that package DNA in eukaryotes; absent in prokaryotic chromosomes.

Absence of nucleus

Prokaryotic cells do not have a true nucleus or a nuclear membrane.

Plasma membrane

Membrane surrounding the cytoplasm; in notes described as acting as the mitochondrial membrane carrying respiratory enzymes.

Cell wall (carbohydrates and amino acids)

Prokaryotic cell wall described in notes as being made up of carbohydrates and amino acids.

Peptidoglycan (murein)

Chemically complex component of most bacterial cell walls; contributes to Gram staining differences.

Binary fission

Asexual reproduction where DNA duplicates and the cell divides to form two daughter cells.

Conjugation

Sexual transfer of genetic material between bacteria through a pilus.

Pilus

Hair-like hollow appendage used for DNA transfer during conjugation and for cell adhesion.

Fimbriae

Proteinaceous, sticky projections that help bacteria attach to surfaces and other cells; short hair-like structures.

Capsule

Outer protective covering that aids in moisture retention, protection from engulfment, and attachment.

Glycocalyx

Layer that functions as a receptor/adhesive and provides protection to the cell.

Endospore

Dormant, tough structure that allows bacteria to survive harsh conditions.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins; present in prokaryotes (noted as aiding protein synthesis).

Inclusion bodies (granules)

Storage granules for carbohydrates, glycogen, phosphate, and fats.

Gram-positive

Bacteria with thick peptidoglycan cell walls; stains purple in Gram staining.

Gram-negative

Bacteria with thinner peptidoglycan walls and an outer membrane; stain pink/red in Gram staining.

Recombination

Transfer of genetic material between bacteria via conjugation, transformation, or transduction.

Transformation

Uptake of DNA from the surroundings and incorporation into the genome.

Transduction

DNA transfer mediated by bacteriophages (viruses) between bacteria.

Conjugation (note)

DNA transfer between two bacteria through a protein tube called a pilus.

Bacteria

Organisms that are prokaryotic; generally unicellular and lack membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes (nucleus vs organelles)

Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; eukaryotes have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic cells

Cells with a nucleus enclosed by a membrane and organelles; generally larger and more complex.

Nucleus (eukaryotic)

Membrane-bound organelle containing linear DNA; site of transcription.

Mitochondria

Organelles in eukaryotic cells responsible for respiration and energy production.

Flagella and Cilia (eukaryotic)

Locomotory structures in eukaryotic cells; flagella and cilia move cells or fluids around them.

Cell wall (eukaryotes)

Outer layer in many plant and fungal cells (present in plants/algae); animal cells typically lack a cell wall.

Mitosis

Cell division process in eukaryotic cells for equal distribution of chromosomes.

Cytoskeleton

Internal framework of eukaryotic cells providing shape, integrity, and movement.

DNA in nucleus (eukaryotic)

Genetic material is linear and housed within the nucleus.

DNA replication (origins)

Prokaryotes typically have a single origin of replication; eukaryotes have multiple origins.

Size range (prokaryotes)

Typically 0.5–3 micrometers in length.

Size range (eukaryotes)

Typically 2–100 micrometers in length.