Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
Prokaryotic and
Eukaryotic Cells
We already described the radically different cell plan of prokaryotes and eukaryotes. A fundamental distinction, expressed in their names, is that prokaryotes lack the membranebound nucleus present in all eukaryotic cells. Among other differences, eukaryotic cells have many membranous organelles (specialized structures that perform particular functions within cells) (Table 3-1).
Despite these differences, which are of paramount importance in cell studies, prokaryotes and eukaryotes have much in common. Both have DNA, use the same genetic code, and synthesize proteins. Many specific molecules such as ATP perform similar roles in both. These fundamental similarities imply common ancestry. The following discussion is restricted to eukaryotic cells, of which all animals are composed.
We already described the radically different cell plan of prokaryotes and eukaryotes. A fundamental distinction, expressed in their names, is that prokaryotes lack the membranebound nucleus present in all eukaryotic cells. Among other differences, eukaryotic cells have many membranous organelles (specialized structures that perform particular functions within cells) (Table 3-1).
Despite these differences, which are of paramount importance in cell studies, prokaryotes and eukaryotes have much in common. Both have DNA, use the same genetic code, and synthesize proteins. Many specific molecules such as ATP perform similar roles in both. These fundamental similarities imply common ancestry. The following discussion is restricted to eukaryotic cells, of which all animals are composed.
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