Chapter 2: Chromosomes and Cellular Reproduction

2.1 Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells Differ in a Number of Genetic Characteristics

Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes

• Prokaryotes: unicellular organisms with a simple structure
  • bacteria (eubacteria) and archaea
  • no nucleus to contain the genetic information (chromosomes)
  • \
• Eukaryotes: organisms with complex cell structures with membrane-bound organelles
  • can be both unicellular or multicellular
  • nuclear envelope surrounds genetic material forming a nucleus
  • use proteins called histones to tightly pack the DNA into chromosomes
  • chromatin: a complex of DNA and histone proteins

Bacteria, Archaea, Eukaryotes

• bacteria and archaea are genetically as different from each other as they are from eukaryotes