3.2.1.2 Structure of prokaryotic cells and of viruses Flashcards
what size are the ribosomes in prokaryotic cells?
smaller - 70S
where is the genetic information located in a prokaryotic cell?
in a circular DNA loop and plasmids
what type of genes do plasmids contain?
genes for antibiotic resistance
what is the cell wall of a prokaryotic cell made of?
murein (a glycoprotein)
what is the purpose of a capsule around a prokaryotic cell?
prevents dessication (drying out) and protects the cell from antibiotics and viruses
what is the purpose of the flagella?
used for locomotion (movement)
what is a mesosome?
a membrane infold which increases SA for respiration / photosynthesis to take place
what are viruses?
acellular, non-living particles
what are the three structural properties of viruses?
- genetic material
- capsid
- attachment proteins
what is the genetic material like in viruses?
- either DNA or RNA (nucleic acids)
- the DNA / RNA is either single or double stranded
what is the purpose of a capsid?
it is a protein coat which protects the genetic material of a virus
what can a virus also be enclosed in?
a lipid envelope
what is the purpose of attachment proteins?
they help them recognise a host
what is the name of the enzyme in HIV?
reverse transcriptase
