Understanding Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Oct 16, 2024

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.