3.2.1.2 Prokaryotic cell and virus structure

• Prokaryotic cells- no true nucleus, no membrane bound organelles, smaller than eukaryotic cells
• Ribosomes (prokaryotes)- smaller (70s) than eukaryotic ribosomes (80s)
• Circular DNA- free-floating, non-coding DNA that is not associated with proteins
• Flagella- tail-like structure, aids movement
• Slime capsule- aids survival by protecting from dangerous environments
• Plasmid- circular piece of DNA found outside the chromosome, can be transferred between bacteria
• Binary fission- division in bacteria, makes two identical daughter cells
• Mesosomes- folds in the membrane, aids chemical reactions
• Viruses- acellular, non-living, can reproduce rapidly, can cause disease, replicate using host cells
• Attachment protein- binds to receptor on host cell to allow entry of pathogen
• DNA/RNA- the genetic material of a virus, which is used to make copies of itself
• Lipid membrane- contains and forms the virus
• Viral tegument- layer of proteins surrounding the viral capsid, replicates viral DNA and evades immune system
• Capsid- the protein surrounding and protecting the genetic material of a virus