Prokaryotic cells
Prokaryotic cells are a type of cell that lack a nucleus and other organelles due to the absence of a nuclear membrane. They are typically smaller and simpler than their counterparts, eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are found in bacteria and archaea, two of the three domains of life.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, typically ranging from 0.1 to 5.0 micrometers in diameter. They have a simple cell structure without many of the organelles found in eukaryotic cells. The most notable absence is the lack of a nucleus; instead, the genetic material is found in a region of the cell called the nucleoid.
Structure[edit | edit source]
Cell Wall[edit | edit source]
Most prokaryotic cells have a rigid cell wall that provides shape and protection. The cell wall composition varies between bacteria and archaea.
Plasma Membrane[edit | edit source]
The plasma membrane of a prokaryotic cell regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Cytoplasm[edit | edit source]
The cytoplasm of a prokaryotic cell is where the functions for cell growth, metabolism, and replication are carried out.
Genetic Material[edit | edit source]
Prokaryotic cells contain a single, circular DNA molecule in the nucleoid.
Reproduction[edit | edit source]
Prokaryotic cells reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission.
Classification[edit | edit source]
Prokaryotic cells are classified into two domains: Bacteria and Archaea. Bacteria are the most diverse and well-known group of prokaryotes, while Archaea are less well-known and are often found in extreme environments.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD