Prokaryotic Cell Interiors Flashcards
Define cytoplasm.
Cytoplasm is everything within the cell membrane.
Define cytosol.
Cytosol is the fluid inside the plasma membrane.
What does prokaryote DNA look like?
It is large circles also known as plasmids.
What is the function of plasmids?
They contain the information (genes) for growth and reproduction.
What is an exotoxin?
A toxic protein that is secreted by a prokaryote or other pathogen and that produces specific symptoms even if the pathogen is no longer present.
What is an endotoxin?
A toxic component of the outer membrane of certain gram-negative bacteria that is only released when the bacteria die.
What are Shiga toxins?
An exotoxin produced by Shigella dysentariae that is similar to the toxin produced by E. coli and causes dysentery.
Give an example of of a pathogenic strain of E. coli.
O157:H7 makes shiga toxins.
Give an example of a beneficial strain of E. coli.
K12 occupies space in our gut and makes vitamins for us.
Give an example of a lab strain of E. coli.
DH5alpha is made and sold by Invitrogen to study because it is easy to manipulate and can’t survive in the wild.
What do plasmids look like?
They are rings of double-stranded DNA.
How many plasmids do prokaryotic cells have?
1-1000 identical copies.
What is a resistance plasmid?
Any plasmid carrying a segment of genes that codes for antibacterial resistance.
Give an example of a resistance plasmid.
The R6K plasmid allows E. coli cells to break down ampicillin.
What is a fertility plasmid?
A plasmid that allows the bacteria to transfer genetic material from itself to another cell.
What is a conjugation bridge?
The bridge between two prokaryotic cells that allows a transfer of DNA.
About how many ribosomes are found in a prokaryotic cell?
7000 to 70 000.
What is a ribosome made of?
3 ribosomal RNAs and 52 ribosomal proteins.
What do Svedberg units measure?
They are a measure of sedimentation, or how quickly certain components of a solution will move to the bottom of a centrifuge tube.
What is the function of ribosomes?
To synthesize new proteins.
