Lecture Notes: Differences Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Introduction

• Ringworm Misconception: Not caused by a worm but a fungus.
• Treatment Differences:
  • Antibiotics for bacteria.
  • Antifungal for fungal infections.
• Cell Differences: Importance in treatment decisions.

Antibiotics vs. Antifungal

• Antibiotics:
  • Target bacteria.
  • Methods: Affect reproduction, damage cell walls, interfere with protein synthesis.
• Fungal Cells:
  • More similar to animal cells than to bacteria.

Cell Types Overview

• Prokaryotic Cells:
  • Domains: Bacteria and Archaea.
  • Characteristics: Single-celled, no nucleus, no membrane-bound organelles.
  • Cell Wall: Typically present.
  • Simpler structure.
• Eukaryotic Cells:
  • Domain: Eukarya (includes protists, plants, animals, fungi).
  • Characteristics: Can be unicellular or multicellular, have a nucleus, have membrane-bound organelles.
  • Cell Wall: Present in plants and fungi, absent in animal cells.
  • More complex and larger.

Shared Cell Features

• DNA: Present in both.
• Ribosomes: Protein synthesis.
• Cytoplasm: Jelly-like fluid inside cells.
• Cell Membrane: Controls what enters and exits, maintaining homeostasis.

Key Differences

• Nucleus:
  • Prokaryotes: No nucleus, DNA is free-floating.
  • Eukaryotes: DNA contained within a nucleus.
• Membrane-bound Organelles:
  • Prokaryotes: Absent.
  • Eukaryotes: Present, e.g., mitochondria, chloroplasts (in plants), endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus.

Importance of Understanding Cell Types

• Biological Diversity:
  • Understanding prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic helps grasp diversity among living organisms.
• Practical Application:
  • Identifying cell type aids in determining treatment (e.g., bacterial vs. fungal infections).

Conclusion

• "Stay curious" reminder from the Amoeba Sisters.