BRAINCAKEComparison with Eukaryotic Cells
In Eukaryotes, linear DNA exists as many chromosomes associated with histone proteins (chromatin) in the nucleus which is enclosed by the nuclear envelope.
In Prokaryotes, a circular loop of DNA is free in the cytoplasm, folded and condensed by non-histone proteins.
Prokaryotes have small, circular loops of extra-chromosomal DNA in the cytoplasms called plasmids. In eukaryotes, extra-chromosomal DNA is present in mitochondria and chloroplasts.
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Key terms in this lesson
- organelle
- A membrane-bound structure within a cell with a specific structure suited to a specific function.
- mitochondrion
- An organelle with a double membrane, the inner one folded into cristae, that is the site of aerobic respiration and ATP production.
- cytoskeleton
- A network of protein fibres in the cytoplasm that gives cells shape, allows movement and anchors organelles.
- plasmid
- A small, circular loop of DNA, separate from the main chromosome, found in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells.
- prokaryotic cell
- A cell with no nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, found in bacteria.
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