Just need this checked:
'The cytoskeleton of eukaryotes serves many functions. One of these functions is served in prokaryotes by a different major structure. Which structural feature is it? How do these different structures serve the same function in the two cell types?'
My answer:
The cytoskeleton of eukaryotes serves many functions. One of these functions is served in prokaryotes by a different major structure: the cell wall. These different structures serve the same function in the two types of cells because the cytoskeleton in eukaryotes holds the cell together and keeps the cell's membranes from collapsing. The cell wall in prokaryotes does something similar; it also provides structure and support. Unlike eukaryotes, prokaryotes lack an internal supporting skeleton, so they depend on a strong cell wall to give the cell shape.
Is this OK?
Thanks
-MC
I think you answered it well, good job :)
Your answer is partially correct, but there are a few clarifications that can be made:
The cytoskeleton in eukaryotes serves multiple functions, including maintaining cell shape, providing mechanical support, facilitating cell movement, and organizing cellular components. However, in prokaryotes, which lack a well-defined cytoskeleton, these functions are performed by the cell wall, along with other structures such as the S-layer and pili.
The cell wall in prokaryotes is a rigid outer layer made up of peptidoglycan (in bacteria) or pseudomurein (in archaea), which provides structural integrity and protection to the cell. It helps maintain the shape of the cell, prevents cell lysis due to osmotic pressure changes, and acts as a barrier against external stresses.
In eukaryotes, the cytoskeleton is a complex network of proteins, including microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments. These filaments contribute to cell shape and mechanical stability, facilitate intracellular transport, enable cell movement (e.g., crawling or flagella/cilia beating), and participate in cellular processes such as mitosis.
Although the prokaryotic cell wall and the eukaryotic cytoskeleton serve similar functions, they differ in their composition, structure, and mechanism of action. The cytoskeleton is a dynamic and intricate system of protein filaments, while the cell wall in prokaryotes is a static outer layer made up of specialized structural components.